15 May 2015 – The Philippine Embassy in Bangkok, in cooperation with Zen at CentralWorld, launched the photo exhibition entitled "The Philippines: Pearl of the Orient Seas" at the Zen Department Store outdoor amphitheater, CentralWorld Mall, Bangkok, on April 08.

The exhibition was the product of a two-year collaboration between the management of the Central Group of Companies and the Philippine Embassy with the aim of promoting awareness, appreciation and travel to the Philippines through the exhibition of 50 1.85-meter wide by 1.22-meter high photographs depicting various aspects of Philippine culture and tourism. The photos showcased beaches and water systems; United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites and other sites including churches, monuments and other historical areas in Metro Manila; industries, sports and other activities; land and rock formations; wildlife; dances and festivals; and other cultural landmarks and symbols.

The exhibit launch began with a reception which was followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony underneath the tall outdoor archway leading to the exhibit.

Among those present during the launch were Vice Minister of Culture Dr. Chaweerat Kasetsoontorn, Pathumwan District Office director and Bangkok governor representative Sitthichai Thuansakon, CentralWorld General Manager Isareit Chirathivat, Zen Department Store President Natira Boonsri President, Office of Policy Management for Corporate Relations Executive Vice-President and CSR of CentralWorld Supatra Chirathivat, ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps, officials from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and other international organizations, leaders of the Filipino community, Thai government officials and local celebrities. The Department of Tourism was represented by Datin Melissa Ong, Marketing Director of DOT-Kuala Lumpur.

The exhibit will be open for viewing until May 25. END