03 February 2014 - The Philippine Embassy in Rome supported a benefit auction organized by Atelier Montez, Fondazione Ducci and Roma Capitale,  entitled “Artists for Philippines (Asta di beneficenza per le Filippine),” which took place in Galleria Montez at Via di Pietralata, Rome on January 25.

The event raised a total of €3,200.00 for the rehabilitation of communities and rebuilding of areas affected by typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in November 2013.

Many artists from different countries donated their works and the proceeds from the auction were to be deposited in the account of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the lead agency in the Philippines responsible for receiving foreign aid and donations for victims of calamities.

A total of 53 paintings were auctioned off, including paintings from renowned Filipino artists Lolita Valderrama Savage and Paul Alex Samaniego.

Art enthusiasts, like the Philippine Ambassador to Italy Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. and US Permanent Representative to the UN Agencies in Rome David Lane, Italian and Filipino guests alike, actively participated in the auction and brought home one-of-a-kind paintings which were on exhibit from January 18 to 24 at Galleria Montez.

The cheque donation was turned over to Ambassador Reyes at a ceremony at the Philippine Embassy in Rome on January 29.  END