The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines Inaugurates the Philippine Corner at the Library of the American University of Kurdistan

Duhok, Kurdistan Region – On October 19, 2025, the American University of Kurdistan (AUK) welcomed a delegation from the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Iraq for the inauguration of the Philippine Corner, known as the Filipiniana Corner, at the AUK Library. The occasion marked a meaningful step in strengthening academic and cultural ties between the University and the Embassy.

The ceremony was attended by AUK President Dr. Randall Rhodes, Ambassador Charlie Manangan, and members of both the Embassy and AUK communities. The program featured the placement of donated Filipino-authored and themed books, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, and remarks highlighting the initiative. The Filipiniana Corner is designed to promote mutual understanding and appreciation between Kurdistan and the Philippines, while allowing AUK students and faculty to explore new global perspectives through reading and research.

Ms. Gulan Ahmed, Director of the AUK Library, remarked:

“The Filipiniana Corner provides a collection of books about Philippines so that our students can learn more about this great nation and its history and culture. It will also support AUK Library’s mission to create a diverse and inclusive learning space.”

Ambassador Charlie Manangan shared that this donation is part of the Embassy’s celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the Republic of the Philippines and the Republic of Iraq, expressing hope that “these books and this space will continue to inspire curiosity, respect, and connection between our peoples.”