Pomp and Circumstance

This week has been busy with the "work" part of our trip..

Started out the week with flag raising ceremony at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). They start every Monday with a formal ceremony to raise the flag, pray, sing hymns, and pledge to the country and to their district. The employees sounded like a professional choir, under the leadership of their leader and our friend, Desidario (Sir Bong).

Met with CHED IT panel to gather their feedback on analytics curriculum...

 

Met with Department of Science and Technology (DOST)...

Finally, wrapped up today by responded to a formal invitation to join the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce to attend an expo where the US Embassador to the Phillippines, Harry K. Thomas, was the guest speaker. Great timing for us to be here! He ended up sitting directly in front of us. I'll admit there was a bit of concern to be so close given the uncertaintly and threats in the world right now, but all good. It was probably one of the most secure places around! Mr. Thomas spoke of the Philippines partnership with the US and the warmth and hospitality of this region...something we have experienced as well!

 

 



Going to be offline more than online for the next few days. Flying in the rain tomorrow...back here on Friday.

 

On the home stretch. Eleven more days...a bit homesick, but what an experience!