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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies at Work devider A story of courage, reading, and friendship

A story of courage, reading, and friendship

Published Dec 29, 2025 03:12 pm
Ambassador Dana Kursh captivates young readers as she enthusiastically shares the English version of David and Goliath, inspiring the children with the timeless values of courage, resilience, and self-belief.
Ambassador Dana Kursh captivates young readers as she enthusiastically shares the English version of David and Goliath, inspiring the children with the timeless values of courage, resilience, and self-belief.
On Nov. 28, the MB Ballroom in Intramuros, Manila, was filled with laughter, curiosity, and the turning of pages as Manila Bulletin celebrated November Reading Month with a special storytelling session of David and Goliath. The event brought together children ages 8 to 11 from District 5, alongside two remarkable leaders: Israel’s Ambassador Dana Kursh and Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso.
What began as a simple reading session blossomed into a powerful moment of education, inspiration, and cultural bridge-building.
Ambassador Kursh read the timeless tale in English, while Mayor Isko brought it to life in Tagalog. To make the experience even more personal, both leaders sat comfortably on the floor, inviting the children to join them. This closeness turned the session into more than just a reading; it became a shared journey of courage, resilience, and imagination.
Education and youth empowerment champions: Ambassador Dana Kursh and Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso inspire young minds through the power of storytelling and cultural connection.
Education and youth empowerment champions: Ambassador Dana Kursh and Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso inspire young minds through the power of storytelling and cultural connection.
The children were not just listeners; they became participants as they joined in interactive storytelling, engaged in a short discussion about bravery and believing in oneself, received books, activity kits, and gifts, and enjoyed a photo opportunity and snacks with their new mentors.
Through these activities, the story of David and Goliath was connected to the children’s own challenges, reminding them that even the smallest can overcome giants with courage and determination.
Beyond the joy of reading, the event carried a deeper message. It highlighted Israel’s commitment to education and youth empowerment, while showcasing Manila Bulletin and the City of Manila’s dedication to nurturing literacy and imagination among underprivileged children.
By combining storytelling, education, and diplomacy, Ambassador Kursh and Mayor Isko demonstrated how books can build bridges, fostering understanding, hope, and friendship between nations.
Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso warmly engages with the children as he reads the Tagalog version of the timeless story David and Goliath, inspiring young minds with lessons of courage and resilience.
Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso warmly engages with the children as he reads the Tagalog version of the timeless story David and Goliath, inspiring young minds with lessons of courage and resilience.
Ambassador Kursh was joined by Deputy Head of Mission Ester Buzgan and media and press officer Rosemarie Chavez, while Mayor Isko was supported by Vice Mayor Chi Atienza, DTCAM Director Cristal Bagatsing, and City Administrator Atty. Eduardo “Wardee” Quintos XIV. Together, they underscored the importance of collaboration in empowering the next generation.
For the children of Intramuros, the day was more than an event; it was a memory of being seen, heard, and inspired. They left not only with books in their hands but with courage in their hearts, ready to face their own “Goliaths.”
Israel Embassy Deputy Head of Mission Ester Buzgan, Manila Bulletin Publisher Herminio B. Coloma Jr., Ambassador Dana Kursh, and Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso joyfully present gifts to the children.
Israel Embassy Deputy Head of Mission Ester Buzgan, Manila Bulletin Publisher Herminio B. Coloma Jr., Ambassador Dana Kursh, and Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso joyfully present gifts to the children.
The Manila Bulletin Reading Program was made even more meaningful through the generous support of Unilab, Nature Earth’s M2 Malunggay Tea Drink, Maris Pure Corp.’s Healthy & Pure Purified Water, and Makati Medical Center Foundation for the toys, partners who share the vision of nurturing young minds, promoting wellness, and empowering the next generation through education.
All smiles for the photo memento: the children who joyfully participated and interacted with leaders from the Embassy of Israel, led by Ambassador Dana Kursh; Manila City Hall, headed by Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso; Barangay 657, Zone 70, District V, Intramuros Chairman John Pipoy Jimenea; and the Manila Bulletin team, led by Publisher Herminio B. Coloma Jr. Joining them were Project Head Badette Cunanan, Brand and Marketing Manager Leslie Araujo, and HR Head Barbie L. Atienza, coming together to celebrate reading, courage, and cultural friendship.
All smiles for the photo memento: the children who joyfully participated and interacted with leaders from the Embassy of Israel, led by Ambassador Dana Kursh; Manila City Hall, headed by Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso; Barangay 657, Zone 70, District V, Intramuros Chairman John Pipoy Jimenea; and the Manila Bulletin team, led by Publisher Herminio B. Coloma Jr. Joining them were Project Head Badette Cunanan, Brand and Marketing Manager Leslie Araujo, and HR Head Barbie L. Atienza, coming together to celebrate reading, courage, and cultural friendship.
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