Cultural exploration highlights Erasmus+ visitor’s immersive experience in Tarlac and Baguio

Erasmus+ mobility participant Ms. Özge Çekirge completed a meaningful cultural exploration trip across Tarlac and Baguio City on May 27–28, 2026, as part of her academic and cultural engagement at Tarlac State University (TSU), culminating in a simple send-off activity at the university’s Engineering AVR.

On May 27, Ms. Cekirge was toured around the Province of Tarlac, beginning with a visit to the rural landscape of RDC Farm and Campsite at Sitio Baag, San Jose, Tarlac, where she experienced the province’s natural and agricultural setting. The morning continued with a taste of Filipino hospitality through a traditional breakfast and coffee session at KafeTana PH, offering her a glimpse of local culinary culture.

The cultural immersion proceeded to one of the province’s most iconic spiritual destinations, the Monasterio de Tarlac, where she observed its serene environment and panoramic views. The tour concluded in Tarlac with a visit to the historically significant Capas National Shrine, a memorial site honoring Filipino and American soldiers during World War II.

The exploration continued on May 28 in Baguio City. Ms. Çekirge visited several of the city’s well-known attractions, including Camp John Hay, Mines View Park, Mirador Heritage and Eco Park, and Wright Park. During her visit, she also experienced local culture firsthand by trying on traditional Igorot attire and sampling popular delicacies such as strawberry taho and strawberry ice cream.

To formally close her cultural immersion activities, TSU organized a simple culminating program at the Engineering Audio-Visual Room (AVR), recognizing her participation and engagement throughout her stay.

The two-day cultural exploration formed part of TSU’s ongoing commitment to strengthening international exchange and providing visiting scholars with meaningful exposure to Philippine heritage, community life, and local traditions.

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