In early June, Dr. Fan Kaunling, prominent Chinese scholar, poet and painter, visited with UPLI President Gil Yuzon in Manila to discuss plans for the next World Congress of Poets in 2016, of which China is a probable venue.
Together, they also made a courtesy call on former Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos at his office in Makati City. They briefed President Ramos on the goals and activities of UPLI and the biennial World Congress of Poets, which is held in a different country every two years. During the visit, Dr. Fan also presented President Ramos with one of his poetic oil paintings, an art form which he originated and for which he has become famous in China. President Ramos also informed the two UPLI officers of his advocacy to promote the Philippines around the world, especially in China, where he maintains strong connections with the business community.
During the same Philippine visit of Doctor Fan, President Gil also arranged for a dinner-reception with the honorable Secretary Herminio Coloma, Head of the Presidential Communications Operations Office of the Philippine Government. On this occasion, which was covered by the government television network, Doctor Fan also presented two of his original paintings to Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III, and to the appropriate cultural institution of the Philippine Government. Secretary Coloma graciously accepted the gifts on their behalf.
President Gil and Doctor Fan also gave interviews on television where they familiarized the audience with UPLI-WCP, and announced the soon to be launched UPLI Global Poetry Contest which poets from all over the world are invited to join.
After what he said was a very successful Philippine visit, Dr. Fan returned in China, where he was scheduled to meet immediately with the local officials of several Chinese cities being considered for the next World Congress of Poets.
