As Part of the Language Training Program at De La Salle University, students explored historical landmarks in Manila during the weekend and visited one of the Philippines’ largest shopping malls. Through these activities, they gained valuable opportunities not only to advance their English studies in the classroom but also to deepen their understanding of Philippine history, culture, and the daily lives of local people.

October 24 (Saturday) Manila Cultural Exploration Tour

On October 24 (Saturday), students participated in a cultural exploration tour of Manila under the guidance of three Filipino English instructors.

Language training aims not only to acquire English skills but also to learn about Philippine history, language, and culture. During this tour, students deepened their understanding of the Philippines while confirming what they had learned in class at actual sites.

The first site visited was **Fort Santiago**, a historic fortress located in the Intramuros district of Manila. Students learned about the history of Spanish, American, and Japanese rule, and considered how each era influenced Philippine development and culture. By directly observing historical buildings, students were able to feel Philippine history more intimately.

Next, they visited **Manila Cathedral**, one of the representative Catholic churches in the Philippines. Students observed its solemn architectural style and learned about the influence of Roman Catholicism deeply rooted in Philippine society. This provided an opportunity to deepen understanding of the connections between religion, history, and people’s daily lives.

They then visited the **National Museum of Natural History**. Inside, they viewed exhibits on plants and wildlife native to the Philippines and its rich natural environment. Many students showed interest in organisms and exhibits rarely seen in Japan, allowing them to learn about Philippine biodiversity and natural heritage.

At the end of the day, they visited **Bonifacio Global City (BGC)**, a modern business and commercial district in the Manila metropolitan area. Students enjoyed lunch and explored the surrounding commercial facilities. Some students visited “Jollibee,” a fast food chain popular in the Philippines, and experienced local food culture including fried chicken and spaghetti with the characteristically sweet Philippine flavor. By experiencing not only tourist attractions but also everyday food culture, students felt closer to Philippine daily life.

October 25 (Sunday) Shopping Experience at SM Mall of Asia

On October 25 (Sunday), students visited **SM Mall of Asia**, one of the Philippines’ leading large commercial facilities.

Located in the Manila metropolitan area, this facility features a diverse array of shops and restaurants, as well as entertainment facilities including a movie theater.

Under the supervision of Filipino instructors, students explored the facility in designated groups, enjoying souvenir shopping and shopping experiences.

Many students visited the **SM Hypermarket**, which carries a wide range of food and daily necessities, and **Kultura**, which handles Philippine traditional crafts and specialty products. Students purchased local sweets, gifts, and Philippine-made products, selecting souvenirs for family and friends. Some students also sought out foreign brand products rarely seen in Japan, and each enjoyed their time as they pleased.

This visit provided an opportunity to experience not only Philippine history and traditional culture but also modern urban life and shopping culture. Even within the same type of commercial facility, the product selection and atmosphere differed from Japan, allowing students to experience local daily life firsthand.

Learning Expanding Through Cultural Experience

During this weekend’s activities, students experienced various aspects of the Philippines, from visiting historical sites and learning about the natural environment to experiencing local food culture and shopping.

Beyond feeling English learned in the classroom in actual life, deepening understanding of different histories, cultures, and values leads to important learning for success in international society.

Through each experience at the local site, students have deepened their understanding of the Philippines and realized the joy and new discoveries of experiencing different cultures. The two-week language training program at De La Salle University has become a valuable opportunity not only to improve English proficiency but also to broaden horizons and enrich their world.