Closer PH-SG Ties Seen as PH Embassy Hosts Kalayaan 2018 Reception
Ambassador to Singapore Joseph Del Mar Yap delivers his message during the diplomatic reception for the 120th anniversary of Philippines at Shangri-la Hotel in Singapore. (Singapore PE photo)
SINGAPORE 27 June 2018 – Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Joseph Del Mar Yap and spouse Lourdes Josephine Gotianun Yap hosted a diplomatic reception at Shangri-la Hotel Singapore on 22 June 2018, to mark the 120th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence.
The reception was graced by more than 300 guests including Singapore officials, members of the diplomatic corps, leaders and representatives of the business community, think-tanks, academe, and members of the Filipino community in Singapore.
Singapore Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Home Affairs Josephine Teo was the Guest of Honour. Minister Teo was joined by Parliament Member for Potong Pasir Single Member Constituency Sitoh Yih Pin, and Parliament Member for Bishan-Toa Payoh Group Representation Constituency Chong Kee Hiong.
In his speech, Ambassador Yap noted that Philippine independence should inspire Filipinos to redouble our efforts towards achieving a prosperous and comfortable life for all Filipinos, in line with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s mandate and the aspirations of our people.
Furthermore, Ambassador Yap looked forward to further strengthening Philippines-Singapore bilateral ties through more exchanges in economic, security, cultural and other areas. As the Philippines’ greatest resources is its people, the Embassy looks forward to more people-to-people exchanges in the future, especially among the youth.
Minister Teo reiterated the statement of Ambassador Yap regarding the vibrant growth of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Singapore, and looked forward to the 50th anniversary of Philippines-Singapore bilateral relations in 2019. Among the diplomatic receptions that she has attended, she always looks forward to the Embassy’s event as it is vibrant and colourful.
In line with the Embassy’s economic diplomatic thrust, the diplomatic reception also showcased various Philippine brands such as Jollibee, San Miguel Ice Cream, Malagos Chocolate, Sarangani Bay Prime Bangus, Orient Pearl, Gerry’s Grill, Emperador Brandy, and Prime Food, which were a hit with the guests. BDO Unibank, Metro Remitance-Singapore Pte. Ltd, LBC, PNB and PLDT Smart World also supported the diplomatic reception.
The event featured the officers and staff of the Philippine Embassy in their elegant Filipiniana. Filipino talents Mark Anthony Canios and Chiara Cataran mesmerized the audience with their rendition of Kudiman songs. END
Ambassador Joseph Del Mar Yap and Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Home Affairs Josephine Teo deliver their toast. (Singapore PE photo)
Ambassador Joseph Del Mar Yap, Spouse Josephine Gotianun Yap, the officers with their spouses and the staff of the Philippine Embassy and the attached agencies. (Singapore PE photo)
For more information, visit www.singaporepe.dfa.gov.ph / www.philippine-embassy.org.sg or https://www.facebook.com/PHinSingapore.