Filipino Culture in Tehran Takes Center Stage at Women's Empowerment Event

Cultural Attaché Kathleen P. Salonga (center) demonstrating the art of preparing the beloved Filipino snack, Puto Maya, during the ALC Coffee Morning celebrating Women’s Month on March 5, 2024, at the Philippine Embassy. (Tehran PE Photo)

TEHRAN 12 March 2024 - The Philippine Embassy in Tehran celebrated the power of women through a captivating fusion of culture and culinary arts during the "Fiesta Pilipinas: Kadayawan Festival" in honor of Women's Month. The Embassy is joined by the ASEAN Ladies Circle, whose patrons and members donned purple for the occasion, this vibrant event showcased the rich traditions of the Philippines while promoting women's empowerment.

Held at the Embassy Chancery on 05 March 2024, the festival was a feast for the senses, featuring a raffle for Fiesta Pilipinas Kits brimming with Filipino cultural elements, a live unboxing session that delved into the significance of each item, and an immersive cooking demonstration, unveiling the secrets behind the beloved Filipino snack, Puto Maya.

This event encapsulates the Philippines' commitment to uplifting women and fostering their empowerment," remarked Philippine Ambassador to Iran Roberto G. Manalo. "By imparting new culinary skills and knowledge, we empower women to embrace their roles as custodians of cultural heritage and catalysts for positive change."

The hands-on cooking demonstration proved to be a highlight, as participants eagerly learned the art of preparing the delectable Puto Maya. Philippine Ambassador Manalo emphasized the transformative power of such experiences, stating, "Culinary traditions transcend mere sustenance; they are conduits for preserving wisdom, fostering unity, and instilling a profound sense of cultural pride." While Puto Maya claimed the spotlight, other cherished Filipino dishes like Pancit Bihon and Okoy were featured alongside the crowd-favorite Buko Pandan during the showcase."

The event witnessed an enthusiastic turnout, with ladies from the ASEAN Ladies Circle and Embassy personnel participating actively. The lively atmosphere fostered camaraderie and cultural exchange, strengthening the ties between the Filipino community and their ASEAN counterparts.

"Today's celebration is a testament to the power of unity and mutual understanding," Philippine Ambassador Manalo remarked. "By embracing our diverse cultures and championing women's empowerment, we pave the way for a more harmonious and equitable world." END

Philippine Ambassador Roberto G. Manalo (center) joining the ASEAN Ladies Circle during a Coffee Morning celebrating Women's Month on 05 March 2024. (Tehran PE photo)

ASEAN Ladies unboxing the Fiesta Pilipinas: Kadayawan Kits, curated packages that showcase Filipino culture and cuisine. (Tehran PE Photo)

Puto Maya, a traditional Filipino sticky rice cake, took center stage during the cooking demonstration at the Coffee Morning hosted by the Philippine Embassy in Tehran for the ASEAN Ladies Circle on March 5, 2024. (Tehran PE photo)

For more information, visit https://www.tehranpe.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.facebook.com/PHinIran/ or https://www.instagram.com/phliniran/.