First Russian center in Phl opens in Mandaue City

The Philippines' first-ever Russian Center officially opened in Mandaue City, Cebu, yesterday, marking a major milestone in cultural, educational, and “people-to-people” exchanges between the country and the Russian Federation.

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Ambassador Marat Pavlov welcomes guests during the opening of the first Russian Center in the country, describing it as “a great pleasure and a profound honor.”

(MITCHELLE PALAUBSANON)

The official launch was spearheaded by the Philippine-Russian Business Assembly (PRBA).

In her remarks, Armi Lopez-Garcia, Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation to the Philippines, highlighted the center's mission to promote the Russian language and culture, a commitment she has championed since 2007.

According to her, the establishment of the Russian Center represents a proud partnership between the Russia World Foundation and the Philippine-Russian Business Association.

“This milestone marks a significant step toward fostering deeper cultural understanding, educational collaboration, and people-to-people exchanges between our communities,” she said.

She added that this Russian Center is among the 139 Russian Centers worldwide that are set to serve communities across the globe.

The center, she noted, will also serve as a hub for language learning, cultural appreciation, and fruitful partnerships.

“Through its programs and activities, it will strengthen the bonds between the Philippines and the Russian Federation for years to come, especially as next year we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Philippine-Russia relations,” she added.