8 Pinoys named UK educ envoys

IN CELEBRATION of Philippine-British Friendship Day today, eight Filipino alumni of UK universities have been appointed UK education ambassadors.

The eight -- Juliet SioAguilar, Nassreena Sampaco-Baddiri, Danilo Concepcion, Amifaith Fider, Glenda Gloria, Beiatriz Latay, Elcid Pangilinan, and Michael Toledo -- come from a range of different sectors, including business, the judiciary, journalism and academia.

The awards will be formally presented at Great Ball on October 25 in recognition of the contribution education, including scholarships, makes to the Philippine-UK relationship.

British Ambassador Asif Ahmad said, “I am proud to confer the awards on eight outstanding alumni, each examples of excellence in their chosen fields. Education is a global currency. It brings people together, builds understanding and creates prosperity. It is at the heart of the partnership the UK and Philippines shares including through scientific exchanges, attendance at UK universities or the British School in Manila and those who take part in the Chevening Scholarship programme.”

Amifaith Fider, who pursued a research fellowship on the International Rights of the Child at the University of London, said that she felt a sense of duty to serve one’s home country after receiving a scholarship to study in the UK.

“When the opportunity came to apply for a position in the Judiciary in year 2004, I proceeded to pursue it, realizing that after everything I have received, this is finally my chance to

serve my country,” Fider said.

Beatriz Latay, who received a Masters Degree from the University of Edinburgh, said that “studying in the UK instilled in me holistic confidence and openness. I was encouraged to question and challenge the status quo while being true to my moral responsibilities. The diversity of minds, cultures and landscape around me promoted collaborative solutions, and inspired a deeper sense of wonder and optimism for what each of us can contribute. These have influenced my thought processes, being a founding member of Ayala Corporation’s Innovation Group, as we identify game-changing opportunities and build lasting relationships with the communities we serve.”

The Great Ball is open to the public and is part of a series to mark Philippine–British Friendship day.

Other celebrations include a fundraising golf tournament spearheaded by the British Alumni Association, community outreach events and a textile exhibition at Ayala Museum in Makati City.