04 July 2016 – The Philippine Embassy in Lisbon celebrated the 70^th anniversary of the establishment of Philippines-Portugal Diplomatic Relations by organizing a reception, concert, and launch of a commemorative CD at the Museu do Oriente in Lisbon. The diplomatic reception was attended by guests from the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representatives from the diplomatic community, the Portuguese Navy, business, tourism, and cultural contacts.

The Coro de Câmara de Lisboa (Lisbon Chamber Choir) performed during the concert. The Choir was founded in 1978 by Prof.Teresita Gutierrez Marques, as Lisbon National Conservatory's chamber choir. Teresita Gutierrez Marques, a Filipina who has been living in Portugal for many years.The choir is formed by twenty young musicians who perform — a cappella or in collaboration with instrumental ensembles — portuguese and foreign works from the Renaissance to the 21 ^st century. The Choir is comprised of twenty young musicians who perform - a cappella or in collaboration with instrumental ensembles - Portuguese and foreign works from the Renaissance to the 21^st century. They have already performed several world premières.

The Philippine Embassy, in cooperation with the Choir, produced a commemorative CD which consists of a selection of Philippine and Portuguese folk songs.

At a time when preservation of heritage and cultural identity is of great importance in the international context, this commemorative CD project is an important opportunity to affirm Filipino culture and to celebrate Philippine-Portuguese diplomatic relations and friendship.

A second performance was held on 26 June 2016 for the Filipino community and the public. END