CEBU, Philippines - Due to the rising influx of Russian tourists in the country, an honorary consul encouraged Filipinos to learn the language to entice more travelers to visit the Philippines.
Russian Federation Honorary Consul Armi Lopez Garcia said that there is a need, particularly for the tour associations, hotel and restaurant management, to study the language of Russia and to establish better understanding of both countries.
“We really lack Russian-speaking guides. They are very much needed in this country. It is not only for the guiding aides but also for the frontliners of the hotels who have to learn their language and culture. We believe that as we welcome more tourists, there is really the need to speak their language for better communication is needed,” she stated.
She further cited that with the 300% growth rate of Russian tourist arrivals this year, the Department of Tourism continues to promote Philippines as the most favored destination for Russia and looks at Russian tourists as the most favored visitors at the same time.
However, she noted that to address such need, the lack of facilities and materials for the Russian language education should also be taken into consideration.
She then expressed gratitude that the University of San Carlos (USC) responded to its call, has opened international learning centers and dedicated a corner for Russian studies along with German and Japanese centers.
The Russkiy Mir Foundation, through the Embassy of the Russian Federation in the Philippines and its Consulate in Cebu, donated books from its international collection to the Russian corner of Josef Baumgartner Learning Resource Center at USC-Talamban Campus.
The organization turned over an initial of 352 books to the university yesterday, primarily dedicated for the study of the Russian language.
Garcia revealed that more books and computers will be donated in the center to be utilized for the virtual tour to Russia that will be made available soon.
“Tourism, culture and heritage are breeding ground for the development of trade and industry. These donations are the first step towards the development of the Russian language that will breed better understanding between two nationalities. There’s more to learn about Russia,” she said.
She added that they are working with the professors of USC to come up with a language program offered to students, professionals and hotel industry players.
We are also planning to have cultural exchange classes and educational programs between universities in Russia and Philippines, she continued.
She then cited that they welcome partnerships with tourist associations, hotel industries, and other universities.
The foundation aims to donate books and set up Russian centers in the world that will have the same facilities in Cebu. The Russian Corner at USC-TC is the first Russian center in the Philippines and the entire Southeast Asian region.
She described Russian tourists as avid travelers, big spenders, and long-staying guests who tend to exhaust the 21-day visa free entry to the Philippines and extend their vacation in the country.
She added that they prefer to explore new countries, beaches and diving and particularly love the beauty of smiles and warm hospitality of Filipinos.
Considering Filipinos as great linguists, Russian Federation Embassy of the Philippines Attaché Alexey Illiviev said that it’s time for Philippines to learn the Russian language and as well as its history, arts and culture.
He noted that the opening of the learning center symbolizes that the Russian policy in the Southeast Asian region and the Philippines is humanistic and peaceful.
“We are grateful for the opportunity of Russia to be heard. The ability of more Filipinos to speak Russian attracts more Russian tourists,” he stated.