PHL Consulate General in Guangzhou Celebrates 119th Independence Day with Diplomatic Reception, Food Fest
Consul General Marie Charlotte G. Tang delivers remarks to the assembled guests.
28 June 2017 GUANGZHOU – The Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou held a reception to celebrate the 119th anniversary of Philippine Independence at the Garden Hotel Grand Ballroom on June 12,
Deputy director-general of the General Office of the Guangdong Government Mr. Gan Zhengmeng attended as the Guest of Honor.
Consul General Marie Charlotte G. Tang noted milestones in Philippines-Guangdong relations, which include the establishment of the Consulate General in 1997, making this year its 20th anniversary. She also shared anecdotes about the food connection between the Philippines and Guangdong, seen in the popular “pancit canton.” Originally sold by Chinese immigrants in the Philippines, this dish is now firmly a part of Filipino food culture. “Canton” is the old name of Guangzhou.
Filipino cuisine was also exhibited at the event. On display was the “Pagkain” photo exhibit, with photographs by Mr. Neal Oshima and English text by Ms. Michaela Fenix, which aimed to explain to Chinese guests the variety of flavors that comprise Filipino cookery.
The “Tastes of the Philippines” Food Festival, done in partnership between the Consulate General and the Garden Hotel, was also launched. The food festival is spearheaded by Filipino chef Mr. Justin Sison. Guests were able to try such Filipino staples as adobo, embutido and kinilaw. They were also treated to halo-halo prepared at a special dessert station, as well as draft beer courtesy of San Miguel Beer.
Representatives from various foreign offices in the provinces under the Consulate General’s jurisdiction, as well as members of the Consular Corps of Guangzhou were also present. Guests received various tourism materials and Oishi snack packs as giveaways.
For more information, visit www.guangzhoupcg.dfa.gov.ph. END
Consul General Tang (center) exchanges a toast with Mr. Gan Zhengmeng (right), deputy director-general of the General Office of the Guangdong Government, and Mr. Li Hongwei (left), deputy secretary-general of Guangzhou.
Chef Justin Sison (left) and Assistant Chef Patrick Constantino (right) prepare halo-halo for guests.