By Marinel E. Peroy
From the very first bite of gazpacho to the last crumb of burnt basque cheesecake, the recent La Fiesta hosted by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines (La Cámara) was a true feast for the senses.
The night was a delicious celebration of Spanish cuisine and culture. Held in the heart of BGC, Taguig City, the vibrant atmosphere was electric, with guests enjoying lively music, spirited conversations, and, of course, the tantalizing flavors of Spain.
As the evening unfolded, the savory aroma of sizzling paella wafted through the air, drawing guests to the buffet where they indulged in a rich array of Spanish dishes. Between dances and cheers, the after-party drinks flowed freely, adding to the lively ambiance. The celebration was a perfect blend of good food, festive energy, and warm camaraderie.
With over 350 attendees, including business leaders, government representatives, and dignitaries, the gathering wasn’t just a celebration of culinary delights but also of the longstanding ties between Spain and the Philippines.
Spain’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Miguel Utray, eloquently noted that the two nations’ shared commitment to sustainable growth, trade, and respect for human rights. He spoke of the crucial role Spanish businesses play in sectors like infrastructure, energy, and digital transformation, strengthening the economic bond between the two countries.
The theme of the night, Celebrating Talent, was fitting as the event also honored remarkable achievers like Instituto Cervantes-Manila (ICM) and AC Mobility, recipients of the Talent Excellence Award. ICM, in particular, was recognized for its role in promoting Spanish language and culture, with nearly 2,200 students currently enrolled in Spanish courses.
But beyond the delicious food and inspiring speeches, La Fiesta was a joyful reminder of the deep cultural ties between Spain and the Philippines.
Ambassador Utray summed it up perfectly: “This annual gathering serves not only as a tribute to our shared history but also as a powerful reminder of the robust economic and cultural ties that unite our nations.”
