Gianna Montinola joins Philippine National Commission for UNESCO

Far Eastern University (FEU) proudly announces the appointment of Atty. Gianna R. Montinola, FEU Consultant for External Affairs, to the Education Committee of the Philippine National Commission for UNESCO (UNACOM). This prestigious role reflects her enduring commitment to advancing education, cultural heritage, and lifelong learning in the Philippines.

UNACOM, established by Republic Act 621 in 1951 and amended by RA 892 in 1953, serves as a vital advisory and liaison body. It aligns the country's initiatives in education, science, and culture with that of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s global mission.

“I am deeply honored to contribute to UNESCO’s mission through this role,” said Montinola. “This is an opportunity to advance education and cultural initiatives that empower communities and build a more sustainable future for the Philippines.”

Montinola joins an esteemed panel of leaders in the Education Committee, which includes government representatives such as:

• Department of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara

• Commission on Higher Education Chairperson J. Prospero de Vera III

• Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Director-General Jose Francisco B. Benitez

• Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Minister Mhagher M. Iqbal

Representing private education alongside Montinola is Dr. Joseph Emmanuel L. Angeles, President of Angeles University Foundation.

Vision for 2025

In her new role, Montinola aims to champion initiatives that reinforce UNESCO’s mandate to foster global citizenship, sustainable development, and intercultural understanding. Among the priority projects under her term are:

1. Promoting UNESCO Learning Cities in the Philippines

   
   

   Advocating for cities to join Balanga (2015) and Legazpi (2024) in earning UNESCO Learning City status. These cities mobilize resources to enhance education inclusivity, workplace learning, and lifelong learning, contributing to individual empowerment and sustainable development.

2. Establishing UNESCO Chairs and UNITWIN Networks

   
   

   Encouraging partnerships with higher education institutions to address complex global challenges. UNITWIN, or the University Twinning and Networking Programme, fosters collaboration among universities and research institutions worldwide. By pooling expertise and resources, UNITWIN networks can advance areas of shared priority, such as sustainable development, cultural diversity, and technology for education. The Philippines currently hosts one UNESCO Chair in Anticipatory Governance and Regenerative Cities at Northwestern University. Montinola envisions potential collaborations involving FEU, Fit-Ed, and the FEU Public Policy Center (FPPC).

3. Building the UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet)

   
   

   Supporting schools in the Philippines to join ASPnet, a global initiative that promotes education for sustainable development, global citizenship, and intercultural learning. The program empowers young people to value diversity, uphold human rights, and work toward a more just and equitable world.

With her expertise in external affairs and advocacy for education, Montinola brings a wealth of experience to UNACOM’s Education Committee. Her appointment aligns with FEU’s mission to inspire and empower Filipino youth through initiatives that transcend academic boundaries.

Montinola was officially appointed as member of the UNACOM Education Committee on October 28, 2024.