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The Philippines

A crowd's silhouetted hands hold up Phillipines flags against a golden sunset

Join Dr. Liza Erpelo and Dr. Rod Magbual on a two-week study abroad journey in the Philippines! Students will have the opportunity to visit Manila and Baguio in the Philippines, while studying the Filipino American literature and history as well as the impact of globalization on local economics, Filipino diaspora, migration, transnational families, and activism.

The Philippines is a Southeast Asian country with a rich history, friendly people, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes. Manila is the capital city of the Philippines and is the political, economic, and cultural center. Baguio is often referred to as the “Summer capital” due to its cool climate and scenic beauty and famous for its cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for relaxation and cultural immersion. In addition to the two cities and cultural tours, the program will visit the University of Philippines, Diliman/Baguio for educational exchange and mutual understanding.

Program Dates

Arrive MNL: Sunday, June 30, 2024

Depart MNL:Sunday, July 14, 2024

Duration:15 Days

Activity Level:Moderately Active

Program Provider:WorldStrides

Apply by: April 5, 2024

Course Information

LIT. 267: Filipino American Literature

Prerequisites: Eligibility for ENGL 100 or ENGL 105, or equivalent

Units: 3 units

Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

ETHN 109: Borders and Crossings

Prerequisites: Eligibility for ENGL 100 or ENGL 105, or equivalent

Units: 3 units

Transfer Credit: CSU; UC

Payment Costs and Payment Policies

The program fee is $2,580.

    • Based on 10-14 students + Coach & Guide: $3,215*

    • Based on 15-19 students + Coach & Guide: $2,580*

    • Based on 20-24 students + Coach & Guide: $2,310*
      *International airfare not included.

Program Fee Includes:

    • WorldStrides' comprehensive risk management and insurance

    • Accommodations, some meals, transportation, guides and cultural immersions.

Payment Schedule

  • April 8, 2024
$357 Deadline to apply. Deposit payment is due upon registration with WorldStrides.*
  • April 22, 2024
$1,096 Second payment due to WorldStrides
  • May 5, 2024
$1,097 Final payment due to WorldStrides

Refund & Withdrawal Policy

If an individual student withdraws, there will be a refund according to the following schedule:

  • Withdrawal on or before Monday, April 15, 2024:
    • All fees paid.
  • Withdrawal after Monday, April 15, 2024 but on or before Tuesday, April 30, 2024:
    • All fee paid less the deposit (15% of ground services portion of program fee) becomes non-refundable, plus any additional non-refundable costs previously committed by the college in writing.
  • Withdrawal after Tuesday, April 30, 2024 but on or before Thursday, May 30, 2024:
    • 50% of ground services portion of program fee and any airfare penalties (if applicable) become non-refundable, plus any additional non-refundable costs previously committed by the college in writing.
  • Wihthdrawal on or after Thursday, May 30, 2024
    • No refund
  • Withdrawal once the program has begun:
    • No refund

Visit the WorldStrides website to register (Trip ID#: 214345) and pay the deposit. You will receive detailed information from the program leader. 

*Please note: Deposit payment is non-refundable. Pricing is based on a minimum of 15 students and subject to change depending on final number of participants

At the time of application to the program, you must satisfy the following program eligibility requirements:

  • Be 18 years of age or older.
  • Be in good academic and disciplinary standing.
  • Complete an interview with the Professor of the course.

Visa

A visa is not required for U.S. citizens traveling to the Philippines. SMCCCD Study Abroad Office will assist any students who needs a Philippines visa.

About WorldStrides

WorldStrides, founded in 1967 by a middle school social studies teacher, is a well-known company that offers educational tours and trips to more than 100 countries for students of various ages. It collaborates with university partners to deliver life-changing global experiences and expose students to real-world learning arenas. It has pushed the limits of education to create programs that empower and inspire, partnering with learners of all ages to bridge cultures and break through boundaries.

aerial view of the Phillipines

More Information or Questions?

Professor Liza Marie S. Erpelo
Language Arts | Skyline College
Email: erpelol@smccd.edu

Professor Rod Daus-Magbual
Social Science Creative Arts | Skyline College
Email: magbualr@smccd.edu

SMCCCD Study Abroad Program
Email: studyabroad@smccd.edu 
Phone: 650-738-7098

Meet The Professors

Meet Professor Liza Marie S. Erpelo

Professor Aina F. Clotas

Dr. Liza Marie S. Erpelo has been at Skyline College since 2002, teaching the range of English courses as well courses on Filipino/a/x American literature, Asian American literature, queer literature, and comic books/graphic novels. She is also completing her graduate certificate to teach Ethnic Studies.

She is the coordinator of the Kababayan Learning Community (KLC) at Skyline College, which focuses on the Filipino/a/x and Filipino/a/x/ American student experience, and the faculty director for ARC Skyline, a joint project with San Francisco State University, College of San Mateo, and Cañada College designed to address critical needs and barriers to underserved Asian American and Pacific Islander (AA&PI) and low-income (LI) students’ success.

A proud, self-proclaimed U.S. Navy brat, Liza was born in Hawai’i and lived in Alaska and Rhode Island before ending up in California.  She currently lives in San Francisco, California with her husband and two children, and in her spare time, is also a U-Jam Fitness and Zumba Fitness instructor.

Meet Professor Rod Daus-Magbual

Professor Aina F. Clotas

Dr. Rod Daus-Magbual is a father, husband, educator, and Council Member for Daly City, CA. He served as a two-time Vice Mayor and was Mayor in 2022. He is also the Executive Director of an award-winning Ethnic Studies program, Pin@y (Pinay/Pinoy) Educational Partnerships (PEP). PEP is a Filipina/o/x American studies community where Rod has mentored upper division undergraduate and graduate students who have become teachers, counselors, and leaders throughout California over the past two decades. He has also taught at various colleges and universities in nothern California and is a tenured track Ethnic Studies professor at Skyline College.