22 July 2014 – The Philippine Embassy joined celebrations as the Philippine Centre and TFC hosted the 30th annual Barrio Fiesta sa London from July 19 to 20.
Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom Enrique A. Manalo delivered the opening remarks at the event. highlighting the deepening bilateral relations between the UK and the Philippines as a result of the positive impact of the presence of Filipinos in the country.
He explained how Filipinos in the UK have helped the Philippines through their positive contributions in their respective communities and professions, as well as through their remittances back home and their strong people-to-people relations.
Philippine Ambassador Manalo further encouraged Filipinos to have a direct say in the future of the country by taking part in overseas absentee voting. The Embassy staff assisted over 100 Filipinos who registered as overseas voters during the event.
The Embassy staff likewise extended assistance in consular matters, labor questions, and SSS and Pag-IBIG concerns. The Department of Tourism was also present to showcase the many perks of visiting the Philippines by handing out pamphlets, magazines and other colourful paraphernalia.
As expected, the Barrio Fiesta had plenty of Filipino culture, business, food and celebrities on display. Over 45,000 people were expected to have attended throughout the course of the event. END