27 November 2013– The Philippine Embassy in Madrid reported that the Municipality of Torrejon de Ardoz in collaboration with UNICEF Spain commemorated the Universal Children's Day through a Benefit Festival Show for the victims of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan). The show, entitled “United for the Philippines”, was held on November 24 at the Teatro Municipal José María Rodero.

The festival presented Philippine music and folk dance by four Filipino groups, namely, SAO-MI (Solidarity and Alliance of Madrid Ilocandians); AMFIL (Association of Filipina Women in Madrid); Golden Girls, and FilCoop Juventud (Youth FilCoop). Spanish local cultural groups also showcased Spanish music and dance.

Philippine Ambassador to Spain Carlos Salinas gave a brief remarks before the show where he shared with the audience the latest figures of casualties and damages and what the government is doing to alleviate the situation. He also expressed gratitude to the organizers and the participants of the festival for their affection to the Filipino people which plays a very significant role in the relief operation efforts in the country.

The Embassy was represented by Ambassador Salinas and Deputy Chief of Mission Catalino R. Dilem, Jr. Also present during the festival were: Mr. Ruben Martinez, Councilor for Administration, Welfare and Immigration of the Municipality of Torrejon de Ardoz, and Mr. Jose Maria Palazuelos, Treasurer and member of the Directive Council of UNICEF Madrid.

Prior to the festival, a Press Conference was held at Torrejon de Ardoz to promote the event, where Ambassador Salinas shared the interview with Torrejon de Ardoz Mayor, UNICEF President Manuel Lopez de Miguel.

The festival is expected to earn around 1,600.00 euros which will be remitted through UNICEF Spain.

The Embassy continues to receive information about various fund raising activities organized by Spanish groups aimed to help the victims of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan). END