The Nightingales Captivate Ethiopia During PH-Ethiopia Diplomatic Relations Celebration
The Nightingales Bianca Lopez and Rhina Palma-Cruz perform Filipino songs.
16 June 2017 ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA — The first Philippine cultural group to perform in Ethiopia, as the highlight of the 40th anniversary of Philippine-Ethiopian diplomatic relations, The Nightingales, composed of Rhina Palma-Cruz and Bianca Lopez, performed before the 200 Ethiopians, Filipinos, and diplomats in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on June 10.
Ambassador Leslie J. Baja said that the Philippines is proud to present The Nightingales in Ethiopia to foster better understanding of the Philippines and Filipinos. There are approximately 800 Filipinos all over Ethiopia working in various educational institutions, international and non-governmental organizations, and religious orders.
Director General for Asian and Oceania Affairs of the Ethiopian Foreign Ministry Tsegab Kebebew, who was the Guest of Honor for the event, said that they value their relations with the Philippines and hope to further strengthen the ties in the next 40 years.
The audience warmly welcomed the concert which is part of the celebration of the 119th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence. The Nightingales were brought to Ethiopia through the joint efforts of the Philippine Embassy in Cairo, Egypt, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Filipino Community in Ethiopia (FCE).
For more information, visit www.cairope.dfa.gov.ph or https://www.facebook.com/cairo.philippineembassy. END
Ambassador Baja and Director General Kebebew after the ceremonial cutting of the cakes