By Marinel Peroy
In the face of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a result of Russia’s aggression and expansionism, the Honorary Consulate of Ukraine Manila held a charity dinner dubbed as “Dine For Peace”. It takes on a poignant and purposeful role in its advocacy for solidarity and support and celebrating the country’s 32 years of independence.
Held on November 23 at the Makati Diamond Residences, the event transcended the boundaries of dining together as it also served as a symbol of cultural unity with all the guests.
Dr. Beatrice Jane L. Ang, the Honorary Consul of the Consulate of Ukraine in Manila said that culinary festivities is a testament to their “collective commitment to raising awareness and funds for Ukraine during these challenging times.” Consul Ang also expressed her gratitude and appreciation to the auction sponsors as their artworks not only depicted a sentimental touch of their craft and also served in the pivotal role of raising funds for those who are in need.
“As we celebrate the 32nd Year of Independence of Ukraine this 2023, let us not forget the resilience and strength of the Ukrainian people in the face of adversity. The proceeds from tonight’s event, as well as the entire week’s activities, will contribute significantly to supporting charitable causes in Ukraine, providing aid where it is needed most,” Dr. Ang added.
With superb culinary experience, compassion, and art, the event was also graced by the members of the diplomatic corps such as Ukrainian non-resident Ambassador Denys Mykhailiuk who came all the way from Malaysia to attend; Ambassador Luc Veron from the EU Delegation; Ambassador Juha Pyykkö of Finland; Ambassador Laure Beaufils of the United Kingdom; Ambassador David Bruce Hartman of Canada; Ambassador Karel Hejč of Czech Republic; and Ambassador Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin of Denmark. There were also other distinguished guests from the different embassies, government officials, and leaders of various business groups.
The night was enriched by Vincent Lahorra’s outstanding saxophone performance (with captivating tunes like La Vie En Rose) and Anastasia Burova’s lively voice, and added elegance to the event. Beyond the exquisite flavors, Dine for Peace seamlessly combines art and culture — through culinary diplomacy and artistic expression fostering understanding and unity among guests from different nations.
Confluence of Philippine and Ukraine Culinary Mastery
With the impressive artworks and music during the event, guests were given an unforgettable gastronomic journey from the illustrious chefs from Ukraine and the Philippines.
No less than Ukrainian Cuisine Ambassador Chef Yurii Kovryzhenko, and our very own Chef Margarita Forés, Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016 provided satisfaction to the guests’ Epicurean voyage. Their expertise and shared vision yielded the perfect blend of Ukrainian-Filipino cuisine, connecting cultures and harmonizing traditions through culinary delights.
The charity dinner’s curated menu served as a cultural bridge, intertwining Ukrainian Pyrzhki and Filipino Blue Marlin “Malasugui” Kinilaw, Ukrainian Borsh and Crimean Tatar Sarma, and a Pasta course of Handmade Waterspinach Sanalones — which harmoniously blends Lapu-lapu, Bulacan River Prawn, Negros Blue Crab, Capiz Scallops, and local flavors. The latter was my personal favorite; as the seafood bits mixed together along the lingering coconut twist of flavor absolutely complimented the water spinach melting inside my mouth.
Speaking to THEPHILBIZNEWS, Chef Margarita Forés said she always incorporates promoting the Philippine culture and heritage by making a shellfish dish because of its “stellar set of ingredients” inspired by our rich body of waters and diverse seafood products in our country.
The celebrated Chef Forés believes that gastrodiplomacy serves as a strong weapon to solve situations in the world and bring everyone closer together. She also emphasized how gastro-diplomacy is seen with how Filipinos showcase our rich culture and heritage (be it in working on the cruise, as an OFW, and among others), wherever we are in the globe.
“The Filipino chef has a chance to really bring a lot of goodness to light and share the beauty of our culture and the warmth of our people. I think that through food sharing our cuisine, we can really make the world a better place — and I think this [Dine For Peace] event is just one example of that,” Forés said.
On the other hand, Forés expressed that she has learned a lot about Ukrainian culture and cuisine, and expressed heartfelt gratitude to Chef Yurii. “I think that through food, it would be a real blessing to bring a cause to light and at the same time, to do my bit for at least helping the situation in their country,” she said, as she also hopes to visit and cook significant dishes with him in Ukraine someday.
Strokes of Generosity: Masterpieces for a Worthy Cause
Dinner For Peace has not only been a culinary experience but also a heartfelt endeavor to contribute to the healing and rebuilding process in the country of Ukraine. Such proceeds will serve as a beacon of hope, offering tangible aid to those affected by the war.
Some of the auctioned artworks include:
- Nadiya by Arthur Tselishchev — In this oil painting which means “Hope”, artist Arthur captures the resilience and inner strength reflected in the subject’s eyes, a testament to her unwavering spirit despite her struggles. The creation of this masterpiece spanned several months, as shared, reflected a labor of dedication and passion.
“All proceeds from the sales will go to Ukraine for medical needs. I am so thankful to represent this piece at our charity auction, and on behalf of all Ukrainians, I will be very grateful to the new owner of my painting!”
- Ikebana: Hope, Courage, and Love by Harold Anopol — Each creation in this flower arrangement is infused with a profound sense of purpose, honoring the spirit of resilience, and illuminating nature’s harmony with the parallel depiction of aesthetics in between.
“In the midst of the conflict’s relentless chaos, HOPE persists as a flickering flame, lighting the path toward a peaceful tomorrow. COURAGE stands unwavering, embodied by the resilient souls who refuse to succumb to despair, bravely striving for a brighter future despite the darkness that surrounds them. LOVE, the enduring force that binds communities together, transcends the battlefield, fostering solidarity and empathy, serving as a beacon of humanity’s unwavering strength even in the most challenging times.”
As guests come, their shared commitment to peace is manifested through both their presence and contributions, illustrating the power of collective action in times of adversity. This dinner gathering highlights the values of resilience, compassion, and a unified effort to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those impacted by the conflict in Ukraine.
Thus, the Dine For Peace has undoubtedly become a platform for a profound exchange of flavors, traditions, and artistic expression with the meticulously crafted menu blending Ukrainian and Filipino culinary treasures of shared camaraderie. Indeed, this event serves as a testament to the transformative power of food and art fostered throughout the night — where gastrodiplomacy takes the form of lingering compassion sprinkled with art in flavorful meals, and the advocacy towards peace is savored on every bite.