21 June 2012 - The Philippine Embassy in South Africa turned over to the National Library of South Africa, on June 14, a collection of nearly 50 books and other media on Filipino history, culture and people as part of the Embassy's initiatives to promote greater cultural understanding and exchange between the Philippines and South Africa and to celebrate the 114th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence.
In his remarks during the turnover, Philippine Ambassador to South Africa Constancio R. Vingno stated that he wished for the books to be a "seed collection" of Filipiniana materials that would grow as the cultural relations between the Philippines and South Africa develops further.
The books and other media, sourced from the Embassy's inventory, the Ambassador's collection and donations from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) cover all aspects of Philippine life and society such as history, geography, arts, cuisine and people.
In response, National Librarian Mr. John Tsebe, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Library of South Africa, thanked the Ambassador and the Philippine Government for the generous contribution to the Library's collection and said that he looked forward to having South Africans enjoy the materials and learn more about the Philippines and its people.
As part of the turnover ceremony, a mini-exhibit of the works of visiting Filipino artist Mr. Rico Tompong was also opened at the library. Mr. Tompong's visit to South Africa was arranged by the Embassy with the assistance of assistance of the NCCA.
