NYPCG Explores Academic & Cultural Partnerships with the University of Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH, PA, 14 January 2026 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York continues to strengthen its engagement with higher educational institutions in the U.S. Northeast through a meeting with University of Pittsburgh. Consul General Senen T. Mangalile met with the representatives of University’s Asian Studies Center to explore potential partnerships in research, cultural exchange, and initiatives that promote Philippine heritage and scholarship.
Accompanied by Consul Juan Carlos C. Borromeo, Consul General Mangalile engaged in discussions with faculty members, including Director Joseph Alter, Ph.D. and Associate Director James Cook, Ph.D. of the Asian Studies Center, Assistant Director of Academic Affairs, Jessica Sun, Ed.D. and Assistant Director for Partnerships & Programming, Linda Lieu.
Consul General Mangalile also met with Filipino graduate and undergraduate students of the University of Pittsburgh and discussed the Consulate’s programs and initiatives. He also invited them to participate in the Consulate’s activities.
The Consulate also visited the Philippine nationality room at the Cathedral of Learning, a 100-year old Gothic Revival structure which serves as a learning and recreation space for University students and home to 29 other nationality rooms. Inspired by the Quema House in Vigan, the Philippine nationality room collects the many streams of cultural influence different groups of people have developed and brought to the Philippines. The room was built with support from the Filipino-American community in Pittsburgh, including members of the Filipino-American Association of Pittsburgh, Inc.
To further support Asian studies at the University, the Consul General presented copies of From Philippines to the World: A Catalogue of Philippine Studies Programs Abroad Promoting Academic Excellence and Cultural Diplomacy and The Murillo Velarde 1734 Map to be included in the university’s Asian studies collection, reinforcing the importance of engaging academic institutions in discussions on Philippine foreign policy and regional dynamics.
The Consulate looked forward to continued collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh in expanding cultural and academic partnerships that promote Philippine heritage, such as through the formulation of a Philippine Studies program, and foster deeper engagement between the Philippines and the academic community. END
