20 June 2014 - The Philippine Embassy in Vientiane, Lao PDR hosted a Diplomatic Reception at the Don Chan Palace Hotel on June 12 to commemorate the 116th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence.
In her message, Philippine Ambassador to the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos (Lao PDR) Maria Lumen B. Isleta highlighted the continued economic growth of the Philippines, despite the many challenges thrown its way.
She also presented an overview of Philippine-Laos cooperation in the past year and ended her message by recognizing the importance of people-to-people exchanges and interaction between both countries. She noted the depth of such interactions was demonstrated when the Lao government and its people (friends and strangers alike…. men, women and school children) came forward to extended assistance to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in November 2013. The Ambassador took the opportunity to thank Laos (kop chai) as well as countries represented by the diplomatic corps and other foreign guests.
Ambassador Isleta was joined by the guest of honor, Minister of Health Prof. Dr. Eksavang Vongvichith, and the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Alounkeo Kittikhoun, for the ceremonial toast and for the cutting of the cake. Other notable guests who graced the occasion included Education Vice Minister Sengduane Lachanthaboun, Finance Vice Minister Thippakone Chanthavongsa, National Assembly Foreign Affairs Chairman Dr. Kukeou Ackhamonty and Lao-Philippines Business Council Chairman Mr. Daovone Panchanthavong.
ACTS Manila, a youth-performing dance company based in the Philippines, treated the guests to a repertoire of ballet dances with hints of Filipino traditional and contemporary cultural influences. The group performed to the tune of Original Pilipino Music such as Ugoy ng Duyan and Paraiso that also conveyed a message for transformation.
Guests were treated to a sampling of Philippine cuisine that included chicken pork adobo, caldereta (Filipino beef stew), ukoy (fried shrimp fritters), popular Filipino dessert halo-halo (mixed fruits on shaved ice). Philippine drinks such as San Miguel Pale Pilsen beers and Destileria Limtuaco liqueurs, including the Manille Liqueur de Calamansi, Mango Rhum, Amadeo Coffee and Very Old Captain Rhum were also served. END
