March 16, 2026
PHILIPPINES HIGHLIGHTS ROLE OF WOMEN IN NATION-BUILDING AT SOOKMYUNG UNIVERSITY’S INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY FORUM
11 March 2026, Seoul – Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea H.E. Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez joined fellow heads of mission as a panelist at the International Women’s Day Forum hosted by Sookmyung University, marking the university’s 120th anniversary. Held under the theme “Global Solidarity for Equality and a Sustainable Future,” the forum convened diplomats and academic leaders to exchange perspectives on advancing gender equality through global cooperation and the critical role of universities in shaping inclusive and sustainable societies.
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March 15, 2026
Cebu-Filmed Drama “Boyfriend on Demand” Released(Ranks No.1 on Netflix Korea Top 10 Series Immediately After Release)
The Netflix series “Boyfriend on Demand”, starring Jisoo and Seo In-guk and filmed in Cebu with production support from the Philippine Department of Tourism, was released globally on Netflix on March 6. Part of the series was filmed on location in Cebu, featuring a variety of scenic landscapes throughout the drama, including the island’s beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and coastal roads. Several scenes highlight the destination’s resort atmosphere, such as moments where the main characters enjoy surfing along the beach or share a romantic dinner overlooking the ocean, vividly capturing Cebu’s charm as a tropical getaway. Following its release, “Boyfriend on Demand” quickly ranked No.1 on the Netflix Korea Top 10 TV Series, while also entering the Netflix Top 10 charts in around 50 countries, according to the global OTT ranking site FlixPatrol. The romantic comedy series, which also features Seo Kang-jun and Lee Soo-hyuk, follows the story of Seo Mi-rae (Jisoo), a webtoon producer who is too exhausted from everyday life to pursue romance. Through a “dating subscription service,” she embarks on new encounters and exciting dates, leading to unexpected relationships and emotional moments. Dr. Erwin F. Balane, Tourism Attaché of DOT Korea, said, “We supported this production as part of a content collaboration initiative aimed at introducing one of the Philippines’ leading resort destinations through the global influence of Korean dramas. With the drama featuring stunning beaches, resorts, and coastal scenery throughout the story, viewers will naturally experience the relaxed and vibrant atmosphere unique to the Philippines”. He further noted that the series, starring Korean Hallyu stars Jisoo and Seo In-guk, is expected to serve as an effective platform to further promote the Philippines to audiences in Korea and around the world.
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March 13, 2026
Philippines Assumes Chairmanship of ASEAN-Korea Centre Council
Seoul, 11 February 2026 – H.E. Bernadette Therese Fernandez, Ambassador of the Philippines to the Republic of Korea, as Council Director of the Philippines, formally assumed the chairmanship of the ASEAN-Korea Centre (AKC) Council during the 18th Annual AKC Council Meeting held at the Westin Josun Seoul on 11 February 2026. Following the handover, Ambassador Fernandez, as the new Chair, presided over the proceedings, which reviewed the AKC's 2025 accomplishments—including 38 programs—and approved the 2026 Annual Work Program and Budget. Outgoing Chair, Council Director of Malaysia Fairuz Adli Mohd Rozali commended the AKC's role in deepening ASEAN-ROK ties, while H.E. Kim Jae-shin, AKC Secretary-General, highlighted key 2026 projects such as the ASEAN Hall in Jeonju and the launch of the ASEAN Officials Trade Academy.
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