International Bazaar 2024 Celebrates Philanthropy and Unity in Diversity 

Leading the ribbon cutting ceremonies are from left: IBF President Betty Ang, Mr. Edgrdo Rubiano, honorable Mayor of Pasay City Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano, IBF Chairperson Madame Pamela Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo, and SHOM Chair for Charity Madame Michelle Hejčová

MANILA 08 November 2024 – Featuring an impressive array of more than 180 booths, each highlighting the finest products of 40 participating countries and world-class merchandise from 56 “Philippines’ Best exhibitors,” Halls B and C of the World Trade Center in Pasay City was transformed into a vibrant tapestry of cultures for this year’s highly-anticipated International Bazaar.

Organized by the International Bazaar Foundation, Inc (IBF), in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Diplomatic and Consular Corps of the Philippines, and Spouses of the Heads of Mission (SHOM), the International Bazaar is an annual tradition marking the beginning of the holiday season.

Pasay City Mayor Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano, who graced the opening ceremony as Guest of Honor, emphasized the importance of serving those in need, during her speech. “We share with you the genuine desire to be of help to our people. It is heartwarming to see effective collaboration in action - where, from different areas and different perspectives, we are brought together by purpose and passion. A purpose to serve the underserved and a passion to make a difference,” thus said Mayor Calixto-Rubiano.

In her opening remarks, IBF Chairperson Madame Pamela Louise Manalo, in turn, also underscored the Bazaar’s dual purpose of encouraging a greater understanding and appreciation of diversity and inclusivity. “The International Bazaar is more than just a fund-raising event; it is a bridge connecting the Diplomatic and Consular Corps community with the general public, as it fosters the promotion of cultural awareness and appreciation through an assortment of high quality food and merchandise, from various countries, offered in this unique multisensory shopping experience!” said Chairperson Manalo.

Also in attendance, during the opening ceremony, were the Honorable Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo, IBF President, Consul Betty Ang, the Spouses of the Heads of Missions (SHOM) Chair for the International Bazaar, Madame Michelle Hejcova, members of the IBF Board of Trustees, and representatives of the diplomatic and consular communities, among others.

Cultural performances by the resident chorale of the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Embassies of Argentina, India, and Indonesia added to the festive atmosphere of the event.

For the second year in a row, the IBF embraced the theme, “Shop Global, Help Local”. All proceeds from the event will fund various IBF and SHOM projects, supporting marginalized communities and providing educational opportunities to indigent scholars.

Established in 1966, the IBF, now in its 58th year, remains committed to its mission of uplifting disadvantaged sectors through charitable activities, while fostering stronger bonds within the international community. END

Guest of Honor Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano delivers her message during the opening ceremonies

The Diplomatic Community gathers at the World Trade Center for the one-day annual fundraising event of the International Bazaar Foundation on 3 November 2024