SPAIN
SPAIN
The Cátedra Extraordinaria de Filipinas was launched in December 2019 at the Universidad Compultense de Madrid. This initiative, witnessed by Senator Loren Legarda, promotes Philippine history, culture, and society through specialized seminars, research projects, and publications.
The program aims to provide Spanish students with a nuanced understanding of the Philippines while fostering a network of Filipino and Spanish researchers. It also supports the curation of works regarding Philippine-Spanish relations.
This effort aligns with the commemoration of the 500th anniversary of Spain’s arrival in the Philippines.
On 28 October 2022, Ambassador Philippe J. Lhuillier formally donated a full-size bronze statue of Philippine National Hero Dr. José P. Rizal to the Universidad Compultense de Madrid. The ceremony was part of the Philippine Embassy's ongoing collaboration with the university under the Extraordinary Chair of Philippine Studies.
The event featured a lecture by renowned historian Dr. Ambeth Ocampo, who spoke on Rizal’s life as a student in Madrid. His presentation aimed to "humanize" the national hero by focusing on his relatable experiences and the challenges he faced while living abroad as an ordinary Filipino student.
Dr. Ocampo highlighted Rizal’s perseverance and his ultimate dedication to serving the Philippines. This ceremonial turnover serves to strengthen cultural ties between the two nations while inspiring a deeper appreciation for Rizal’s enduring legacy among both local and international academic communities.
Ambassador Lhuillier with officers of the Philippine Embassy and Migrant Workers Office.
Established in 1293 and relocated to Madrid in 1836, this prestigious public research institution is among the world’s oldest continuously operating universities. As one of Spain’s most esteemed centers of higher education, it honors its historic roots while maintaining a significant global influence through expansive academic facilities.
The university operates two primary campuses: Moncloa, a hub for science and culture, and Somosaguas, located amidst expansive green spaces. By focusing on sustainable development and advancing knowledge, the institution remains dedicated to addressing 21st-century challenges through its commitment to integrated education and innovative research.