'PHL CAN LEARN MUCH FROM KOREA' - ANGARA

Senator Edgardo J. Angara said that the Philippines must capitalize on long-standing ties and undertake more educational exchanges with Korea, during his keynote address at the Philippine-Korea Development/Business Partnership Forum.

Speakers from the Korean Ministry of Knowledge Economy, and Ministry for Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries made presentations at the event alongside representatives from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the Department of Agriculture (DA).

The forum is organized by the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) and The Financial News.

Angara, Chair of the Senate Committee on Education, Culture and the Arts highlighted that partnerships in tourism, agriculture, and mining would be particularly beneficial to both countries.

"But on top of these many investment opportunities, I would like to also emphasize educational collaboration especially in Science and Technology," said Angara, who is also the Chair of the Senate Committee on Science and Technology. "We ought to concentrate on that and take advantage of the opportunities being offered by Korea."

He noted that right now, at any single year, almost 300 Filipino scholars are studying in Korea, with many of them in S&T.

"Some of our young scholars and scientists in Korea are involved in studies on utilizing ocean current for generating electricity. Korea now can boast of the biggest electricity plant powered by ocean current. "

Angara also called for more exchange in the creative arts saying, "Many don't realize that Koreans are probably one of the most artistic and creative people in the world. Their art and design is so advanced that they've been winning many international awards. They've redesigned and rebranded all their products. Many of them have become global brands because of their innate artistry, particularly using digital technology in tandem with art."

In conclusion, Angara said, "[The Philippines and Korea] share values that are more than skin-deep. We are founded on common values of democracy and spirituality, passion for education and culture.

"But this relationship is not only historical and sentimental. It is also based on a real exchange of sacrifice," added Angara, noting that the Philippines was the first country to send a military contingent during the Korean War in the 1950s. "We must capitalize on these ties that hark back to much earlier than many of us think."