20 June 2014 - The Philippine Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon successfully hosted a reception on the occasion of the 116th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on June 12 at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Palace in Beirut. The reception was attended by members of the diplomatic and consular corps led by the Papal Nuncio and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Monsignor Gabriele Caccia, Lebanese government officials and businessmen, representatives of non-government organizations and leaders and members of Filipino community organizations in Lebanon.
Dublin-based Filipino artist Mr. Marvin Baldemor, who was in Lebanon for his Philippine art exhibit entitled “A Journey of Colors”, also attended the reception. His Philippine-themed paintings were displayed on the walls of the hall providing a lively and colorful ambiance during the reception.
Prominent Lebanese politicians and leaders graced the occasion: Guest of Honor H.E. Dr. Kassem Hachem, Member of Parliament officially representing the President of the National Assembly Nabih Berri and the President of the Council of Ministers Tammam Salam; Minister of Environment Muhammad Machnouk; Dr. Ammar Houry, Member of Parliament representing Opposition Leader and former Prime Minister Saad Hariri; Fady El Aawar and AbdelLatif El Zein, Members of Parliament. The heads of Lebanon’s security agencies namely Lebanese Armed Forces, General Security and and Internal Security Forces also sent their respective representatives.
In her message, Philippine Ambassador to Lebanon Leah M. Basinang-Ruiz highlighted the economic progress achieved by the Philippines under the leadership of President Benigno S. Aquino III and the prospect of a sustained peace in Mindanao as a result of the signing last March of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro. Noting the message of support presented by the attendance of high-ranking Lebanese officials and other dignitaries, she hailed the long-standing friendly ties between the Philippines and Lebanon, reiterating the deep appreciation of the Philippines for Lebanon’s cooperation with regard to its Filipino workers. Ambassador Ruiz also highlighted the active Philippines-Lebanon cooperation in the area of culture as manifested by the successful holding of the first-ever Philippine Art Exhibition in Lebanon at the Le Yacht Club-Beirut in Zaitunay Bay and the 2014 Philippine Food Festival and Cultural Show at the UNESCO Palace.
The guests were invited to taste the new Philippine Red Mango cocktail drink, made from the famous Philippine Mango Rum Liqueur and were also entertained with the rendition of Philippine original music and the performance of the Philippine folk dance Tinikling. END
