As the demands of education continue to evolve, the Consulate General of the Republic of San Marino in the Philippines is strengthening its commitment to Filipino learners through strategic partnerships that go beyond traditional classroom instruction.
By collaborating with schools, community organizations, and private sector partners, the Consulate is creating opportunities that nurture literacy, creativity, cultural awareness, and global citizenship—equipping young Filipinos with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
For Consul General Jean Henri Lhuillier, education must do more than teach academic fundamentals.
“Education today must prepare students not only to read and write, but also to understand the world around them, appreciate culture, and adapt to the future. Young learners need opportunities that encourage curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong desire to learn,” said Lhuillier.
Guided by this vision, the Consulate has championed programs that blend learning with cultural enrichment, helping students develop a broader understanding of the world while staying connected to their roots and communities.
A key partner in these efforts is Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI), which has worked alongside the Consulate to make educational and community-based programs more accessible to Filipino youth. Together, they have supported initiatives that encourage reading, creativity, and inclusive learning experiences.
Among the standout projects is the Consulate’s collaboration with Bookmark, Inc. to publish Pamilyang Papel, a children’s storytelling and activity book designed to make cultural education engaging and accessible. Through interactive stories and activities, the publication promotes reading, creativity, and values formation while introducing young readers to culture and heritage.
The Consulate has also strengthened its long-running Hooked on Books Program, implemented in partnership with Cebuana Lhuillier and LINKS Philippines. The initiative aims to cultivate a stronger reading culture among Filipino students while creating more conducive learning environments.
A major milestone under the program is the development of the JHL-RSM Library, the 30th Hooked on Books library established through the initiative.
Currently being built at Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School, the library represents the Consulate’s continuing investment in literacy and lifelong learning. Ahead of its opening, volunteers and partners joined a three-day community effort that included mural painting, library setup, and storytelling sessions designed to inspire children to discover the joy of reading.
The project has drawn strong support from both public and private sector stakeholders. Representatives of the Manila city government, led by City Administrator Atty. Eduardo Quintos, expressed support for the initiative and its potential impact on local communities.
Private sector partners also played a crucial role in bringing the project to life. Boysen donated paints that transformed the learning space into a vibrant and inspiring environment, while TOSOT provided air-conditioning support. Meanwhile, Archispace Design Inc. worked alongside JAS Design and Build Development Corp., led by Sandy Ocampo and Alvin Lu, to help construct and design the facility.
As the JHL-RSM Library nears completion, it stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in shaping the future of education. Through initiatives that expand access to knowledge, foster cultural appreciation, and encourage lifelong learning, the Consulate General of San Marino continues to demonstrate how meaningful partnerships can help empower the next generation of Filipino learners.