2 UP researchers get grant to study Galleon Trade in Mexico

Two faculty members of the University of the Philippines (UP) will go to Mexico later this year to conduct research on the Galleon Trade that flourished between Manila and Acapulco in the 16th century, according to former UP president and now Senator Edgardo Angara. Angara said the Aboitiz Foundation has committed to sponsor Kristyl Obispado and Kristoffer Esquejo through a study grant. "It's about time we institute a research exchange program such as this," said Angara. "This is the first of its kind, made possible through the cooperation of UP and its counterparts in Mexico." Angara said the Mexican counterparts of UP in the research exchange are El Colegio de Mexico, El Colegio de San Luis and the Mexican National Archives. "Our national identity owes so much to the Galleon Trade, but we have very little scholarship about it. The Aboitiz Foundation is giving our scholars the means to explore a subject that is extremely significant to our country's history," Angara added. The former UP president said the Galleon Trade research "is also in line with the celebration of the international Día del Galeón Festival held in October of each year." – Earl Victor Rosero, GMA News