FGS News
Members of the Siddhartha Musical cast Take Refuge and Receive Precepts
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple May 15, 2024 On April 22nd, at the Manila Mabuhay Temple of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines, a Three Refuges and Five Precepts ceremony was held, attended by all 24 staff and actors of the Siddhartha Musical. The Philippines being a predominantly Catholic country, this ceremony was not only an exchange between Buddhists and artists but also a convergence of hearts and beliefs. Actor Benjie shared his feelings after accepting the Three Refuges and Five Precepts during the ceremony. He expressed joy in this fresh start, stating that portraying the role of the Buddha gave him special insights, deepening his understanding of life and faith. Director Junrey shared his journey of developing an interest in Buddhism through the Siddhartha Musical. He mentioned that years of association with Fo Guang Shan enabled him to gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist teachings, especially being profoundly influenced by the teachings of Fo Guang Shan's founding master, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, which purified and elevated his spirit. Abbess Venerable Miao Jing encouraged everyone to strive for the Three Acts of Goodness after receiving the Five Precepts— Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thought. This, she emphasized, is a demonstration of responsibility towards oneself and others, and a vivid interpretation of Buddhist values. Venerable Yung Guang, the Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines, inspired contemplation on life and value through a philosophical fable. Each person is likened to different materials, each possessing unique value and utility. Some are like diamonds, inherently valuable, yet without proper utilization, their brilliance remains unseen; others are like stones, seemingly ordinary but able to wield tremendous influence in certain circumstances. Therefore, having the aspiration and taking practical action are the keys to endowing life with true value. "The holding of this ceremony is not only an affirmation of Buddhist faith but also a beautiful revelation of artistic creation and personal growth. Let us together respect life, cherish every moment, and let our spirits shine brighter in the light of faith," concluded Head Abbess Venerable Yung Guang.
Childcare Center Teachers and Students Visit Yuan Tong Temple for Experiential Learning Beyond Classroom
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple April 9, 2024 On April 4th, Barangay Zone 3 Child Development Center in Talisay City embarked on a remarkable journey, with nearly 110 teachers, students, and parents setting foot together on a trip to Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple. This visit was not just a trip, but an adventure rich in growth, learning, and emotional experiences. Led by teacher Brenda, the children stepped out of the classroom to engage in experiential learning, delving deeper into understanding how to become better individuals. Venerable Zhi Rong shared lively and interesting stories about Guan Yin Bodhisattva, guiding the children to recite the Three Acts of Goodness: Do Good Deeds, Speak Good words, and Think Good Thoughts. Throughout the process, the children also learned the hand gesture of the lotus flower, symbolizing purity of the mind. In the interactive sessions, children were encouraged to voice their thoughts and understanding about doing good deeds and speaking kind words. They shared their perspectives, demonstrating a profound understanding of kindness and friendliness, as well as exploring and affirming the beauty of human values. With the assistance of volunteer Jennifer, Venerable Zhi Rong explained to the children in Filipino, making the communication smoother and more natural. The visit allowed each child to deeply feel the power of kindness and goodness, while also reinforcing their awareness of positive behavior and warm language. Yuan Tong Temple not only holds significant educational value but also serves as an ideal place for children to visit.
Actors of the Siddhartha Musical Participated in a Buddhist Thought Course to Boost Their Performance Confidence
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple May 16, 2024 In preparation for their trip to South Africa, 25 members of the Siddhartha Musical, including actors and staff, attended a full-day course on April 22 at the Mabuhay Temple of the Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines. The course covered topics such as Buddhist thought, meditation, and Buddhist rituals, aiming to enhance their confidence and professionalism. Led by the Siddhartha Musical's guidance Venerable, venerable Chueh Lin, the course included specially arranged team-building activities to help the actors maintain a calm mindset during performances. With the Siddhartha Musical having been established for 17 years, such arrangements were deemed particularly important to bolster the confidence of the actors. During the course, the actors expressed their gratitude to the masters and shared their experiences of interaction with them. For instance, Francis Isidro, who portrays King Suddhodana, thanked Venerable Chueh Lin for her encouragement and mentioned how meditation and Buddhist rituals gradually improve their performance standards. Additionally, Ivy expressed her gratitude for her acquaintance with the head abbess, Venerable Yung Guang, who always provides them with encouragement, confidence, and hope. The course also included teachings from Abbess Venerable Miao Jing and Venerable Miao Jing. Venerable Zhi Min emphasized how Buddhist rituals can awaken the actors' self-awareness and enlightenment, while Venerable Miaojing strengthened their understanding of Buddhist philosophical concepts by introducing them to familiar figures such as Head Quarter Abbot Ven. Hsin Bau and Venerable Tzu Jung Furthermore, actor Manchie shared his experiences of interacting with Venerable Yi Kong, who shares her understanding of Buddhism with them, allowing them to experience the wisdom of Buddhism. Venerable You Dao used meditation during the course to help the actors stabilize their emotions and relax, better equipping them to handle the pressures of performing. In conclusion, Abbess Venerable Yung Guang encouraged the actors to seize opportunities, and they expressed gratitude for the harmony and cooperation with the song "Miss You! My Master." After the course, the residents also generously provided each person with daily necessities for their trip to South Africa, showing their care for the actors' accommodation and other needs during the journey.
Siddhartha Musical Triumphs at the Cebu Guang Ming College Theater, Igniting a Buddhist Artistic Wave
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple May 17, 2024 The Cebu Guang Ming College Theater came alive on the evening of April 18th, as a stirring musical about Prince Siddhartha filled the venue with emotions and joy. Dignitaries, including the Philippines' Fo Guang Shan Head Abbess Ven. Yung Guang, Ven. Miao Guang and Abbess Ven. Miao Jing, graced the occasion, adding prestige to the event. The preview in the evening was warmly welcomed by friends and family, with nearly a hundred people gathering to witness this masterfully crafted performance. The actors' exceptional skills and heartfelt performances kept the audience laughing and applauding continuously, creating a lively and heartwarming atmosphere. The success of this musical is not only a significant milestone in the history of Buddhism in the Philippines but also marks the first attempt to carry Filipino Buddhist cultural artistry to South Africa. The blessings and applause from the audience seemed to be the best testimony to the performance and the greatest encouragement to everyone involved. In the serene surroundings of the Cebu Chu Un Temple, the nights are always filled with melodious songs, where a group of art enthusiasts often gather to practice, discuss, and create, igniting brilliant sparks of artistry in this peaceful land. In this performance, Benjie's portrayal of the role of Buddha has a history of 17 years, his unwavering meditation skills are admirable. Director Junrey's meticulous scripting and guidance have made the entire performance even more captivating and moving. It's worth mentioning that the success and support of this endeavor stem from everyone's love and dedication to art, as well as their respect and inheritance of Buddhist culture. The success of this musical not only enriches the cultural life of the Cebu Guang Ming College but also injects new vitality into Filipino Buddhist artistry, believing it will continue to stir up a wave of Buddhist artistry, influencing and touching the hearts of more people.
The Teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun: His Works and Words
Marilyn Lopega March 19, 2024 A Dharma Talk given by Venerable Jue Ju, who is the superintendent of the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Founder’s Hall, was held on March 15, 2024 at Guang Ming College (GMC) in Tagaytay, Philippines. It is entitled “The Teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun: His Works and Words”. About 160 faculty, staff and scholars attended, together with Venerable Abbess Miao Jing of FGS Mabuhay Temple, Venerable Zhi Qin, the President Luisa So, Dharma Sister Belinda Tantoco and Linda Oliva of Buddha’s Light International Association Hong Kong Sub-Chapter. The President of GMC Dr. Michael Tan remarked that when Venerable Jue Ju told the stories of Venerable Master Hsing Yun our Founder, we would get to know him and found our root in Humanistic Buddhism. In the closing remarks, Venerable Miao Jing encouraged all to uphold the practice of Three Acts of Goodness through unconditional and universal giving in every daily doing. Ven Jue Ju explained that if we want to know Master Hsing Yun, we have to know his personality. What better way to know him is through his works, and his words (teachings). These are the two main human characteristics that emphasized to be developed through the acts of giving joy, hope and convenience to other people. First, we have to become uninvited friends. Venerable Master Hsing Yun means that if there is ever a need of any kind, whether material or services, we should be ready to give our services or talent or whatever we can give to fulfill the needs. There should always be a willingness to give and to serve without conditions. Just like Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the power of giving is always in his heart, always becoming an uninvited friend in every opportunity that comes his way. Second, is the spirit of being number two. This means that we put others as the number one, and we come only second to them. We put other people who help us, who nourish us, who became part of who we are as the number one. Therefore, we think of their convenience, joy, comfort ahead of ours. They are the first consideration in everything that we do, our convenience only comes second to theirs. And we should always show this with a big heart. The power of giving is always in the heart. Venerable Master Hsing Yun exemplified the two important characteristics throughout his life. This was witnessed especially when he was already old and having many health issues. Since he gave unconditionally to all without exceptions, he continued to work hard in his calligraphy even when he could no longer see and experiencing a lot of pain when writing. He did this to raise funds for the colleges and universities he promised to establish and support. Even if they took all of what he had, he never wavered in his vow to support these schools so that the scholars can continue their education. These all he accomplished, as he said, to give value to his life, be of benefit to others, and help society, and bring more compassion to the world. Now that he is a star in the sky, we will still continue to learn from him. We start with small things until given more responsibility, we can do greater things that bring joy, provide convenience and develop confidence to others. A day before the Dharma Talk, a vegetarian cooking lesson was demonstrated by Venerable Jue Ju to the students and staff of GMC. Chef Neil has appreciated her mindfulness and calmness in cooking five dishes over three stoves within a tight timeframe. Feedbacks about the Dharma Talk from: Ms. Joei Eborde, 2nd year Theatre Major, teared herself when she learnt more about Venerable Master Hsing Yun. She felt very lucky to be chosen as a scholar of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Every piece about the life of Venerable Master Hsing Yun is very precious teaching and practice to her. Mr. Joshua de Puyart, 3rd year Basketball athlete scholar, is grateful for Venerable Jue Ju’s Dharma Talk. He is able to learn about the determination, endurance and persistence in Venerable Master Hsing Yun. He is motivated and realizes how Venerable Master Hsing Yun overcome physical illness and limitation. He is looking forward to learning more about Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s sport life in the upcoming BLIA Cup in Taiwan. Student Affairs Director Prof. Maru Percela said that she is grateful to Venerable Jue Ju for coming to inspire the scholars. The stories of Venerable Master Hsing Yun helped the students to keep him alive in the hearts. She hopes that the students will pay back the Founder’s noble vision by studying eagerly and practice Three Acts of Goodness in their everyday activities.
Philippine GMC Board Trustees Meeting, Working Towards New Milestones
Venerable Zhipu and Lourdes Wang April 19, 2024 On April 16, Guang Ming College (GMC) conducted a board trustees meeting at the Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple in the Philippines. The board trustees’ members expressed their concern about the progress of GMC and discussed ways to achieve new milestones collaboratively. Dr. Michael Tan, the President of GMC, led the Vice President and his team in presenting their achievement report for the school year 2023. This impressive achievement report will be given to the respected venerables supporting the school in pursuing its goals. The BLIA members received this performance report due to everyone's trust and encouragement. The achievement would not have been possible without Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision and compassion to establish schools in the Philippines. Venerable Yung Guang, the Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines, expressed her appreciation for everyone who worked together to fulfill the Venerable Master's vows. We are delighted that the school has been completed. We want to thank the board members who care about Fo Guang Shan’s education and have been watching Fo Guang Shan's growth and GMC's growth. We would also like to thank President Dr. Michael Tan for moving to Tagaytay. Dr. Alfonso Uy, a member of the GMC board of trustees, shared that he rose from poverty to become a self-made entrepreneur. He previously served as a director at the University of Central Philippines in Iloilo and fully supports the Venerable Master's initiative to establish schools to combat poverty. The church aided Dr. Uy's path to success, and he is committed to contributing both his time and resources to GMC. He cares deeply about the school's growth and the future of its students. Dr. Michael Lao, who serves as the director of the BLIA Headquarters and Chairman of the Fo Guang Shan Educational Fund in the Philippines, expressed his sadness at the news of the Venerable Master's passing. He urged BLIA members to strengthen their support for education and make the Venerable Master’s vows their own. Dr. Lao also expressed his eagerness for future meetings and exchanges, believing that the more we learn, the more we can help the college. Dr. Michael Tan, the President of GMC, expressed his gratitude to the Venerable Master for his contributions to education in the Philippines. The college's founding marked the beginning of a transformation in education, bringing hope for a better future. Since its establishment, the Star and Cloud Art Center have been completed. In 2024, we plan to upgrade the dormitory, library, and office equipment. Currently, there are 132 students enrolled in the academic year. The college strives to improve its teaching system, not only in terms of academic education but also moral education. For instance, Dikachi, an African sports science student, practices the Three Acts of Goodness as a social worker after class to serve the public and takes culture, art, and technology courses as a minor subject. GMC offers a wide range of minor majors to choose from and many international exchange opportunities. The basketball, cheerleading, and track and field teams have recently achieved numerous victories. GMC values compassion, kindness, and the Three Acts of Goodness and encourages its students to organize children's activities. In this case, the teachers, students, parents, and community can grow and learn in a Buddhist educational environment. We thank the Venerable Master for establishing five Fo Guang Shan University Consortium across four countries. It is an honor that GMC is located in the Philippines, providing devotees with the opportunity to cultivate blessings and wisdom. The 2023 achievement report presented by GMC belongs to everyone. All outstanding performances are the glory of all sponsors and supporters. We hope 2024 everyone will continue to achieve new milestones together.
Humanistic Buddhism Forum on Dialogue and Linkages
Loisa Soh April 23, 2024 Philippine Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple and Buddha’s Light International Association, Phils- Pasig, San Juan sub-chapters and Young Adult Division in collaboration with Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism and Humanistic Buddhism Center, Philippines hosted the “Humanistic Buddhism On Dialogue and Linkages” at Mabuhay Temple Prajna Hall. The event attracted 200 participants from BLIA members, Educators, Business groups, students and Interfaith friends. Venerable Miao Guang, the personal English Interpreter of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Deputy Chancellor of Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, Associate Professor in the Department of Religious Studies at Nanhua University, and Director of Fo Guang Directory of Buddhism English Translation Project. Mabuhay Temple Abbes Venerable Miao Jing; Trainer of Trainers, Dr. Cecilia Manikan, Dr. Maje Purino, Philosophy Professor of the University of San Carlos; and BLIA President Kathy Lim Uy are also in the panel to share insights and exchanging ideas that can lead to meaningful advancement of humanistic practice in the human world. Ven Miao Guang's speech delved into the profound legacy of Ven Master Hsing Yun, showcasing his impact through Education, Arts, and Culture within the Buddhist context. The speech also explored Buddhism's dynamic relationship with literature, arts, new media, interfaith dialogue, and its role in fostering racial harmony. Looking forward to 2024, there is a strong emphasis on integrating Buddhism in the digital age, ensuring its relevance and accessibility while continuing to promote the teachings of dharma globally. Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple Abbess, Venerable Miao Jing, on the other hand, shared the growing success of the Three Acts of Goodness Program in DepEd Schools around the Philippines. Since TAG Program was launched in 2016, there are currently around 600 DepEd Schools practicing TAG through different school programs, one of the benefits of the TAG program is helping promote Anti-Bullying Advocacy. The program granted 300 schools around the Philippines last 2023, and aims to increase the number of TAG School Grants for this year to a total of 350 schools. Dr. Cecilia Manikan, known as the Trainer of trainers, presented a video presentation of the Whole Brain and Mindfulness Training where she conducted training sessions in various school divisions across the Philippines. The Whole Brain and Mindfulness Training program is firmly grounded in the principles of Humanistic Buddhism, with a strong emphasis on mindfulness and the Three Acts of Goodness. Through the integration of these principles into educational training, Dr. Manikan's program seeks to nurture personal growth, empathy, and positive social interactions within educators and students, underscoring the transformative impact of Humanistic Buddhist philosophy in fostering comprehensive well-being and ethical engagement in both educational settings and broader society. Dr. Maje Purino shared that she is currently spearheading research, academic studies, and linkages with Humanistic Buddhism. She discussed possible researches related to Humanistic Buddhism such as Humanistic Buddhism as a modernization of the Chinese Mahayana Buddhism, Humanistic Buddhism; Theory and Practice, Humanistic Buddhism in the Philippines, Humanistic Buddhism as a Humanistic Buddhism on Artificial Intelligence, Humanistic Buddhism on Education, etc. BLIA President Kathy Lim Uy discussed the success of promoting Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Three Acts of Goodness and Four (4) Givings as exemplified in the construction of Guang Ming College for the future of the young Filipinos. She continued to share that Venerable Master Hsing Yun has changed the lives of many people, through his efforts, Siddhartha the Musical was formed to perform the life of Sakyamuni Buddha, in 17 years, they have performed more than 200 shows locally and internationally, they are also set to go on South African tour this May. Nelson Guevarra, PG Flex Group President and board member of the Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, commended the GMC Basketball team, a rookie in the field of basketball and already performing well, he reiterated the importance of sports in lessening teenage problems related to too much of social media exposure. Dr. Marjorie Evasco, a known poet and writer, professor emeritus, and Palanca Awardee, she showed appreciation to the panel, especially to Dr. Purino’s sharing, as an academician, she reiterated the importance of Humanistic Buddhism in the Academy.
Philippine seminary students visited Yuan Tong Temple at Fo Guang Shan for in-depth exchanges
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple April 11, 2024 Philippine Convention Bible Baptist College's master's degree students visited Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple on April 3rd, aiming to promote communication and understanding among different religions. School teachers encouraged students to actively participate in interfaith dialogues to broaden their perspectives. Two students, Bajghart Sison and Jay Ramos, specifically chose Yuan Thong Temple as the venue for religious exchange. Accompanied by Venerable Zhi Rong, Bajghart raised a series of questions, exploring the meaning of life and religious interpretations thereof. He inquired, "Who am I? What is the essence, mission, and purpose of humanity? Where am I? What is the nature of the world and the universe I inhabit? What are the problems? What fundamental questions or obstacles hinder me from finding fulfillment? (In other words, how do I understand evil?) What are the solutions? How do I overcome obstacles to fulfillment? (In other words, how do I attain redemption?)" This exchange was not merely a superficial interview but rather a profound spiritual dialogue. Venerable Zhi Rong also actively sought the students' views on these questions from a Christian perspective, initiating a clash of religious theories. From their respective religious standpoints, both sides discussed the meaning of life, concepts of good and evil, and paths to solving dilemmas, leading to intellectual collisions and inspirations. This in-depth exchange deepened the understanding and appreciation of Buddhism for students Jay and Bajghart. They expressed anticipation for their return visit to Yuan Tong Temple in May, eager to experience the grandeur of Buddha's Birthday celebration firsthand, participate in the bathing of the Buddha ritual, further immerse themselves in the charm of Buddhist culture, and share their unforgettable exchange with classmates upon returning to school.
Transcendence: Lotus Art Exhibition" Opens at Yuan Thong Temple, Philippines – 14 Artists Depict the Purity of the Lotus
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple April 25, 2024 Yuan Thong Temple, a branch of Fo Guang Shan in Bacolod City, Philippines, hosted the "Transcendence: Lotus Art Exhibition," which opened with great splendor on the afternoon of April 20th. This exhibition featured the works of 14 local artists, including dedicated volunteers such as Ryan and Pneuma. The opening ceremony attracted over 20 artists and more than 20 members of the Fo Guang community. Venerable Zhi Rong presided over a blessing ceremony to inaugurate the event, offering blessings to all participating artists. Host and artist Pneuma introduced each exhibiting artist and explained the background and significance of the event. As one of the initiators of the event, Pneuma expressed great satisfaction in joining such a meaningful endeavor, citing the benefits many children have derived from participating in Yuan Thong Temple's art courses. Ryan shared his motivation for joining the volunteer team, stating that the educational philosophy of Fo Guang Shan aligns with his own values of altruism and helping others. Rosita Gochangco, representing the Bacolod Chapter, extended a warm welcome on behalf of the association, expressing gratitude to the artists for their active participation. Venerable Zhi Rong elucidated the symbolic significance of the lotus flower, emphasizing its representation of the purification of the mind and the purity of practitioners. Finally, all the artists participated in a lamp-offering ceremony, symbolizing the arrival of hope and light. Venerable Zhi Rong presented tokens of appreciation to all the artists on behalf of the temple, wishing them unwavering hearts and peaceful coexistence. Among the artists, Tibo Deocades' works combined oil painting with relief sculpture. His pieces aimed to depict how carp thrive amidst mud without becoming tainted, showcasing their allure through the lotus flower. Laden with profound symbolism, his works transport viewers into realms of contemplation. After touring the exhibition, Lyra Ong was deeply moved. She remarked that many of the artworks exuded an atmosphere of harmony, compassion, and love. Particularly striking was a painting depicting a girl holding a lotus flower in the water, evoking a serene and tranquil environment that resonated with inner peace and tranquility.
Humanistic Buddhism Promotion in Cebu, Philippines
Venerable Miao Jing May 15, 2024 As part of the promotion of Humanistic Buddhism in the Philippines, Venerable Miao Guang, the Deputy Chancellor of the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Institute of Humanistic Buddhism Taiwan came to Cebu for a momentous event that highlights three different activities. A lecture on death and dying; a generous book donation of the works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun; and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing between the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism (IHB) through the Humanistic Buddhism Center Philippines and the University of San Carlos (USC) through the Department of Philosophy. The event took place in the University of San Carlos Talamban Campus on April 20, 2024 at the SAFAD Theater. The hybrid event was live-streamed online to account to the total attendance of almost 400 participants. The USC Fr. President Francisco Estepa,PhD SVD gave the commitment to fostering a well rounded understanding and hosting the lecture of respected Buddhist Scholar, Ven. Miao Guang. The Buddhist tradition offers a rich philosophical and spiritual tradition to framework the contemplating death not with dread but with acceptance and wisdom. This lecture is a valuable opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of impermanence and its role in shaping a meaningful life, explore Buddhist philosophy on suffering and how to alleviate it, and learn practices for cultivating compassion and equanimity in the face of mortality. In her lecture entitled A Matter of Life and Death from the Buddhist Perspective she asked the students to consider the prospect of death as an opportunity to live a good life. She probed questions like, what are we in this life for? Are we scared of death? What legacy do we leave behind? Her lecture is relevant because she presented on the Buddhist views of suffering, non-attachment, and re-birth in a manner that was personal and not technical that made it easily relatable to the general audience. Such is the vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, to bring to light the core teachings of the Buddha in a manner that is understandable, applicable, and meaningful. The Book donation, meanwhile, was a collection of the works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun as well as the Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts. It was received by the Chair of the Department of Philosophy, Dr. Ruby Suazo and the Director of Libraries. All the books will be sent to the Learning Resource Center where all the students will have access to the wisdom of Humanistic Buddhism. Finally, the MOU shall prompt faculty exchanges, in the form of lectures, forums, and round table discussions as well as researches by faculty and graduate students who wish to learn more about humanistic Buddhism. Venerable Abbess Miao Jing of FGS Mabuhay Temple and Venerable You Hui of FGS Chu Un Temple are active in international religious dialogues, exchanges and partnerships. The collaborative effort is based on open-mindedness, interactive relations and mutual respect transcending boundaries to achieve harmony, peace and love-kindness. The metaphor of a colorful garden with green plants has described the concept of co-existence and oneness in humankind. It was a fruitful event with deep reflections about life delivered eloquently by the speaker. It marked a good start for future collaborations between the IHB and USC.
