Philippine Consul General to Barcelona Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro welcomes the International Relations students of Blanquerna-Universitat Ramon Llull
at the Consulate on 24 February 2023 for a seminar on Philippine Foreign Policy. (Photo by Barcelona PCG)

BARCELONA, 20 February 2024 – In its ongoing effort to promote Philippine perspectives in public and academic spheres, the Philippine Consulate General yet again hosted students of Blanquerna-Universitat Ramon Llull University (URL) at the Consulate Hall on 24 February 2025.

The Philippine Consulate engaged with 28 first year International Relations students from the School for Communication & International Relations of Blanquerna-URL for a two-hour session which included an introduction to Philippine Foreign Policy, its programs and priorities, and a briefing on the West Philippine Sea issue.

Led by Blanquerna-URL Director for the Undergraduate Program in International Relations Onno Gerard Hubert Seroo, the visit also included a tour of the Consulate’s consular section.

This seminar was part of the students' ongoing IR lesson on "foreign policy actors and structures," with other groups concurrently visiting other Consulates General in Barcelona.

"We thank the Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona for its warm welcome and for providing us the opportunity to learn about the unique work of the Philippines in its relations to the world. It truly inspires students to envision themselves in the exciting profession of international relations," Director Seroo said.

The Consulate's university outreach program plays a crucial role in advancing Philippine interests by fostering understanding of the country's foreign policy priorities among future international relations professionals. By engaging with students, the Consulate not only promotes awareness of key issues like the West Philippine Sea but also cultivates potential allies and advocates for Philippine interests on the global stage. This proactive approach to diplomatic engagement underscores the importance of soft power in shaping international perceptions and relationships.

Blanquerna-URL Director for the Undergraduate Program in International Relations Onno Gerard Hubert Seroo (standing) explains the objectives of the students’ visit and expresses interest in exploring possible partnership for Blanquerna-URL with universities in the Philippines in the area of international relations. (Photo by Barcelona PCG)

Vice Consul Lee Gano briefed the students on the West Philippine Sea issue, reaffirming the Philippines' unwavering stance that it "will not yield an inch of its territory" and is utilizing all available diplomatic channels to assert its rights. Vice Consul Gano underscored the Philippines’ appreciation for Spain and the broader European Union for their strong and consistent support of the 2016 Arbitral Award and the rule of law in maritime disputes.  (Photo by Barcelona PCG)