The Consulate of Georgia in the Philippines, led by Consul (a.h.) Thelmo Cunanan Jr., has initiated the founding of the first Georgian – Philippine Online Magazine.  The medium is set to formally begin in time for Georgia’s Independence Day on May 26.

The project, a collaboration between Caucasus University School of Journalism and The Manila Times College, was ushered by Consul Cunanan, TMTC Dean Dr. Isagani Cruz, and CU President Kakha Shengelia. In December, Consul Cunanan organized the successful signing of an Memorandum of Understanding between the two academic institutions—the first between Georgian and Philippine media schools—that paved the way for greater collaboration and cooperation in the field of curriculum development, research, training, and exchanges of official papers and documents. Included in the MOU was the establishment of a Georgian – Philippine Online Newspaper.

On March 13, Consul Cunanan and Ms. Mariam Sutidze, head of international relations of Caucasus University, moderated the first online Skype conference call between students and faculty of CU and TMTC. During the virtual meeting, the parties agreed on timetables, scopes of work, and respective duties and responsibilities. The online newspaper will feature articles and news reports that are relevant and interesting for young people, not just from Georgia and the Philippines, but from all over the world. The magazine will also include a page for the Georgian Consulate to disseminate news about its many activities in the Philippines.

“This is a historic occasion,” said Consul Cunanan. “The world is now a highly-connected community of Netizens. This online magazine will go a long way in strengthening Georgian – Philippine relations and to spread awareness of these countries’ cultures to people all over the world. I congratulate the students of Caucasus University and The Manila Times College for their participation in this most worthwhile endeavour.”