FEU supports 1st Philippine Studies Hub in NZ

Far Eastern University (FEU) was represented by Vice President for Student Development and Continuing Education Dr. Joeven Castro at the launch of a pioneering academic initiative in New Zealand, which highlights Filipino perspectives in education, research, and public discourse.

From left to right: Dr. Harold Aquino, Andrea Vujnovich, Dr. Sarah Jane Lipura, Amy Malcolm, Ambassador Kira Christianne D. Azucena, Auckland University of Technology Vice-Chancellor Professor Damon Salesa, Dr. Eunice Faustino Gaerlan, Dr. Maricar Bautista, Consul Feamor Tiosen, Honorary Vice Consul Oneal Mendoza, Louise Anne Marcelino, and Dr. Joeven Castro. Embassy in Wellington, New Zealand

“This Hub is an opportunity for Philippine institutions like FEU to address the limited visibility of the Philippines in Asia-focused studies within New Zealand. It will create pathways for students and educators to engage with, and advance, the scholarly and creative contributions of Filipinos across research, advocacy, and policy in international contexts,” Castro said.

The Philippine Studies Hub was conceptualized by the Philippine Studies Network in Aotearoa New Zealand, which Castro co-founded with Filipino scholars based in New Zealand. With funding support from the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs–Office of Cultural Diplomacy (DFA-OCD) and the Auckland University of Technology as its host institution, the Hub aims to serve as a national center for research, training, and engagement. It seeks to bring Filipino perspectives into mainstream education, public policy, and societal discussions in New Zealand, especially with the Filipino community now ranking as the third-largest Asian group in the country.

The agreement was formalized by Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Kira Christianne D. Azucena and Auckland University of Technology Vice Chancellor Damon Salesa.

Ambassador Azucena emphasized the Hub’s role in helping New Zealanders gain a fuller understanding of the Philippines—its culture, economy, history, and politics—as the Filipino population continues to grow in the country.

The launch comes ahead of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and New Zealand in 2026 and serves as a springboard for deeper collaboration in education and cultural exchange.

Castro’s participation signaled FEU’s support for global academic initiatives that highlight Philippine culture, strengthen cross-cultural dialogue, and create new opportunities for students and educators.