THE UNIVERSITY, in collaboration with the Embassy of Chile in Manila, launched an exhibit commemorating the quincentennial of the first circumnavigation of the globe led by Ferdinand Magellan, on Aug. 23 at the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. (BGPOP) Building.
The collaborative exhibit titled “Encounters between Three Worlds: 500 Years after the First Circumnavigation of the Earth” featured stories and historical documents detailing Magellan’s journey and how it changed the world.
The exhibit also showcased various artifacts including tools used by seafarers who had crossed the Strait of Magellan.
UST Vice Rector Fr. Isaias Tiongco, O.P., said Magellan’s exploration paved the way for globalization.
“[Magellan’s exploration] brought something…Circumnavigation is actually a forerunner of the world’s globalization, which is today when we speak of progress and alliances, nandoon na. Actually, it is the seed of globalization,” Tiongco told the Varsitarian.
Chile’s ambassador Claudio Rojas Rachel said they partnered with UST as it was crucial to impart the significance of the first circumnavigation to Thomasians.
“[W]e have a very sustained relationship through time with the University of Santo Tomas…[we partnered with them] to bring about the cultural reality of Chile to the students of UST, for the young generations to foster our beloved relationship,” Rojas told the Varsitarian.
Rojas said the first circumnavigation remained significant today given the importance of trade and development.
“[S]ea cargo is still a major factor in developing trade flows. Circumnavigation is still significant. There is no other way around [it], and it is really [the seaports that are] the major hub nowadays,” she said.
“It is really important that we secure the free flows of trade and the freedom of international navigation. Otherwise, you will have a situation [where] people and the society won’t be able to trade,” the ambassador added.
The exhibit will run from Aug. 24 to Sept. 1. with reports from Justin Benedict Lim
