The Foreign Service Institute’s (FSI’s) Diplomatic Tradecraft Programs and Area Studies Section (DTPASS) successfully conducted the “Basic Course on Public and Cultural Diplomacy” (BCPCD 2023) from 4 to 25 May 2023. The online synchronous course, conducted via Zoom, designed for beginner Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and FSI personnel, introduced the key concepts, tools, and strategies in conducting public and cultural diplomacy to advance Philippine foreign policy priorities. Thirty-one (31) duly endorsed personnel from the Department and FSI participated in the course.

The resource persons were composed of experts from the DFA and representatives from the academe and the private sector. They discussed fundamental concepts and the basics of useful tools in conducting public and cultural diplomacy work (e.g., graphic design, videography, social media campaign planning, press release writing). Participants learned more about the public diplomacy process through the activities of the Department of Foreign Affairs – Office of Public and Cultural Diplomacy (DFA-OPCD), the best practices of US Embassy and PCG Frankfurt, some marketing strategies for cultural promotions; and were capacitated to create visually appealing and effective publicity materials and to maximize digital spaces for information dissemination.

The course was well received by the participants, where some said that the course “provided a thorough and well-rounded understanding of the principles, strategies, and practical applications of public and cultural diplomacy.” It offered practical tips, tools, or frameworks that participants could directly apply in their work or future endeavors in the realm of public and cultural diplomacy. The participants also commented that the lecturers were “knowledgeable, experienced, and engaging,” which made the sessions interesting and enjoyable, especially for beginners.