In celebration of the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANAMo) 2023, the Philippine Embassy visited the Vientiane Berean Academy and the Learning Sanctuary Homeschool on 26 and 27 September 2023, respectively, to give a presentation on the Philippines as a maritime and archipelagic nation.

Led by Philippine Ambassador to the Lao PDR Deena Joy Amatong, the Embassy discussed various topics including Philippine geography, its location in the Coral Triangle, the country’s rich marine life and how being a maritime and archipelagic nation influences Philippine culture.

During the lecture, a framed copy of the Murillo Velarde Map by Jesuit cartographer Pedro Murillo Velarde was also presented to the students. Chief Petty Officer Roger Bergado, representing the Office of the Defense and Armed Forces Attaché in Vientiane, also talked about his work in the Philippine Navy.

MANAMo is celebrated every year during the month of September pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 316 s. 2017.

In addition to MANAMo, the Embassy also joins in celebrating World Maritime Day 2023 today, 28 September 2023, with the aim of raising awareness on the importance of the maritime industry and its vital contributions.