First launched in 2022, Korea Festival has grown into one of KCC’s flagship events, showcasing diverse facets of Korean culture through immersive, interactive, and educational experiences. Traveling to different regions each year, the festival expands its reach while engaging new audiences across the country.

This year’s destination, Baguio City — widely known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines — provides a fitting backdrop for the celebration. Recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Arts (2017) and the first Philippine city inducted into the Hall of Fame of the ASEAN Tourism Standards after three consecutive wins of the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award, Baguio stands as a vibrant hub of creativity, tradition, and cultural exchange.

Set against the cool mountain air of the City of Pines, Korea Festival 2026 promises to bring K-culture dreamscapes to life through a dynamic mix of experiences.

Immersive booths & cultural experiences

Festival-goers can explore a wide range of interactive booths and themed zones throughout the grounds, featuring traditional and modern K-culture. Guests can also discover Korea’s top travel destinations, explore the world of Korean creative industries, and learn about content protection in engaging and accessible ways.

Hands-on activities include digital painting, Hangeul pop art, and the well-loved Hanbok-wearing experience, where visitors can dress in traditional Korean attire. Additional arts and crafts stations highlight both traditional and contemporary Korean creativity, offering fun and meaningful experiences for all ages.

In celebration of the Philippine Chairship of ASEAN in 2026, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts will bring a dedicated ASEAN Corner, inviting visitors to explore the richness and diversity of Southeast Asian cultures through interactive elements such as storybooks, traditional crafts like puppets and masks, and games from ASEAN countries.

Live performances & on-stage highlights

As the sun sets, the festival stage comes alive with dynamic cultural performances that bring together Korean and Filipino talent. Audiences can enjoy energetic K-pop cover dance showcases alongside traditional performances that celebrate heritage and artistry.

Special highlights include performances by the Korea Taekwondo Association, the Suwon Gugak Association, and a traditional performance team from Baguio, whose vibrant showcases will keep the energy high throughout the evening and offer a memorable cultural experience for all attendees.

Organized in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Korea Tourism Organization Manila Office (KTO), the Korea Copyright Protection Agency Manila Representative Office (KCOPA), the Korea Creative Content Agency Philippine Business Center Philippines Office (KOCCA), the Korea Agro-Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation Vietnam Office (aT), and SM City Baguio, the festival is free of charge and open to the public, inviting families, friends, and cultural enthusiasts to take part in this unique celebration.

The vibrant celebration of Korean culture continues its journey across the Philippines as the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) announced its the much-anticipated Korea Festival 2026 to Baguio City on May 9-10, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., at SM City Baguio.

First launched in 2022, Korea Festival has grown into one of KCC’s flagship events, showcasing diverse facets of Korean culture through immersive, interactive, and educational experiences. Traveling to different regions each year, the festival expands its reach while engaging new audiences across the country.

This year’s destination, Baguio City — widely known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines — provides a fitting backdrop for the celebration. Recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Arts (2017) and the first Philippine city inducted into the Hall of Fame of the ASEAN Tourism Standards after three consecutive wins of the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award, Baguio stands as a vibrant hub of creativity, tradition, and cultural exchange.

Set against the cool mountain air of the City of Pines, Korea Festival 2026 promises to bring K-culture dreamscapes to life through a dynamic mix of experiences.

Immersive booths & cultural experiences

Festival-goers can explore a wide range of interactive booths and themed zones throughout the grounds, featuring traditional and modern K-culture. Guests can also discover Korea’s top travel destinations, explore the world of Korean creative industries, and learn about content protection in engaging and accessible ways.

Hands-on activities include digital painting, Hangeul pop art, and the well-loved Hanbok-wearing experience, where visitors can dress in traditional Korean attire. Additional arts and crafts stations highlight both traditional and contemporary Korean creativity, offering fun and meaningful experiences for all ages.

In celebration of the Philippine Chairship of ASEAN in 2026, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts will bring a dedicated ASEAN Corner, inviting visitors to explore the richness and diversity of Southeast Asian cultures through interactive elements such as storybooks, traditional crafts like puppets and masks, and games from ASEAN countries.

Live performances & on-stage highlights

As the sun sets, the festival stage comes alive with dynamic cultural performances that bring together Korean and Filipino talent. Audiences can enjoy energetic K-pop cover dance showcases alongside traditional performances that celebrate heritage and artistry.

Special highlights include performances by the Korea Taekwondo Association, the Suwon Gugak Association, and a traditional performance team from Baguio, whose vibrant showcases will keep the energy high throughout the evening and offer a memorable cultural experience for all attendees.

Organized in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Korea Tourism Organization Manila Office (KTO), the Korea Copyright Protection Agency Manila Representative Office (KCOPA), the Korea Creative Content Agency Philippine Business Center Philippines Office (KOCCA), the Korea Agro-Fisheries and Food Trade Corporation Vietnam Office (aT), and SM City Baguio, the festival is free of charge and open to the public, inviting families, friends, and cultural enthusiasts to take part in this unique celebration.

Hosted for the first time in the Philippines, the Accor Asia Leadership Conference 2026 gathered more than 300 general managers and senior executives from across Asia at Novotel Manila Araneta City. Centered on the theme “THRIVE,” the three-day event focused on the future of hospitality through performance, purpose, and people.

The conference also spotlighted Araneta City, widely known as the “City of Firsts,” while showcasing the warmth and service excellence associated with Filipino hospitality.

During the awards ceremony, Novotel Manila Araneta City received the Brand Excellence Award for Midscale & Economy, recognizing properties that demonstrate consistency, strong market presence, and elevated guest experience. The hotel earned an impressive 91.54 brand audit score, the highest in Asia.

The latest recognition adds to the hotel’s strong performance track record. In 2023, the property was named Best Food & Beverage Performer at the Accor Asia Awards and also earned nominations in five key categories, including Best Loyalty Performance and Hotel of the Year.

Meanwhile, both Novotel Manila Araneta City and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City were jointly honored with the Work of Heart Award, celebrating authentic hospitality and strong employee engagement. ibis Styles posted a 9.8 engagement score, while Novotel achieved an even higher 9.9, among the strongest results in the network.

Further underscoring its all-around excellence, Novotel Manila Araneta City was also named a finalist for Hotel of the Year 2025 and the Responsible Hospitality Award 2025, reflecting its progress toward Green Key Certification and commitment to sustainable operations.

“These recognitions are a proud moment for our entire team,” said Maria Manlulu-Garcia. “They reflect the passion, consistency, and genuine care our Heartists bring to every guest interaction.”

She added that the awards affirm the group’s commitment to delivering meaningful guest experiences while maintaining strong operational performance.

For Araneta Hotels Inc. and the broader Philippine tourism sector, the wins signal more than trophies—they represent a strong vote of confidence in the country’s ability to compete and lead in one of Asia’s most dynamic hospitality markets.

As Boracay Island continues its long-standing tradition, Love Boracay: Wild Water Weekend brings together music lovers, beachgoers, and travelers for a weekend filled with rhythm, connection, and unforgettable island memories.

Taking place on May 1 and May 2 starting at 8 p.m. at Cove 2, the festival will feature an exciting lineup of international, national, and local DJs who will transform the beachfront into a pulsating hub of music and celebration.

Adding to the excitement, fans and festivalgoers can look forward to a special appearance by James Reid, whose looks and dynamic performances have made him one of the country’s most sought-after artists. His presence brings star power to the festivities, elevating the experience into a must-see event for music lovers and travelers seeking a vibrant island escape.

The celebration continues beyond the main stage with the Love After Hours happening on May 3 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the pool of Savoy Hotel Boracay.

A free pass will be extended to all guests who have availed Wild Water Party tickets.

The after party offers a relaxed yet festive atmosphere where guests can unwind, socialize, and keep the summer vibes alive in a lively poolside setting.

To make the experience even more seamless, festivalgoers can extend the fun with exclusive stay packages at Savoy Hotel Boracay, Belmont Hotel Boracay, or Chancellor Hotel Boracay for as low as ₱4,700 for an overnight stay with breakfast.

The package includes a one-night pass to Love Boracay: Wild Water Weekend on the guest’s preferred date, complimentary scheduled shuttle service to and from D’Mall, and a 15-minute non-motorized sports and activities experience, allowing guests to fully embrace the island lifestyle.

Turn up the island vibe with irresistible party treats and drink deals across Boracay Newcoast. Start the celebration at Savoy Hotel Boracay, where guests can enjoy unlimited cocktails for three hours at just ₱499 perfect for soaking in the summer energy by the pool.

Keep the party going at Belmont Hotel Boracay with its vibrant Island Party Towers for ₱1,050, ideal for sharing with friends. For those ready to go all out, gather your crew at Chancellor Hotel Boracay and indulge in the Arriba Party Feast, featuring one whole pizza, one bottle, four extra shots of Jose Cuervo tequila, and two cookies, all for ₱5,299.

As Boracay welcomes travelers seeking both excitement and connection this summer, Love Boracay: Wild Water Weekend is one of the ways to celebrate Labor Day weekend in true island style.

For many travelers, Qatar is first defined by Doha’s skyline and the glow of the Corniche at night. Yet beyond the capital’s waterfront lies a deeper narrative—one shaped by art, marine wonder, and time-honored wellness traditions.

As Qatar continues to evolve, it is crafting an identity that extends beyond its modern façade. Outside Doha’s striking architecture, the country reveals a quieter, more reflective side—expressed through public art, rare marine encounters, and wellness practices rooted in centuries of knowledge.

Together, these experiences signal a growing focus on heritage, sustainability, and lifestyle-driven travel.

Art in the Streets of Doha

Across Doha, artist Mubarak Al-Malik is part of a movement transforming public spaces into open-air cultural canvases.

Known for blending abstract and realist styles, Al-Malik has long championed the idea that art should exist beyond gallery walls. Inspired by street art during a trip to Europe in 2010, he began bringing his work into everyday spaces—making it accessible to a wider audience.

A recurring motif in his work is the batoola, the traditional metallic face covering worn by older Arab women. For Al-Malik, it represents heritage, identity, and the enduring strength of past generations.

Among his notable pieces is a mural at Qatar Museums’ Fire Station, depicting a woman in a batoola beside burning bakhoor, a traditional aromatic incense—an evocative blend of cultural memory and contemporary expression.

His work also extends into older communities and villages, where weathered walls are reimagined as cultural landmarks, reinforcing art as part of daily life.

A Rare Encounter at Sea

Beyond the city, Qatar offers one of the region’s most remarkable natural spectacles.

In the waters of Al Shaheen, as many as 200 whale sharks gather seasonally between May and September. These gentle giants—the largest fish in the world—are typically solitary, making their congregation in Qatar’s warm waters a rare phenomenon.

The government strictly regulates guided tours, allowing visitors to observe the animals responsibly under conservation protocols. This reflects Qatar’s growing commitment to sustainable tourism and marine stewardship.

For those who experience it, the encounter is both unforgettable and humbling—a rare glimpse into the richness of marine life in the Arabian Gulf.

Wellness Rooted in Tradition

North of Doha, Zulal Wellness Retreat by Chiva-Som offers a contrasting experience—one centered on healing, balance, and tradition.

Built on the principles of Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine (TAIM), the retreat draws from centuries of knowledge influenced by Islamic scholars and enriched by Persian, Graeco-Roman, Chinese, and Ayurvedic practices.

Its holistic programs combine therapies such as cupping, therapeutic massage, movement, meditation, and nutrition—creating a comprehensive approach to well-being.

Set between desert and sea, Zulal provides a tranquil environment designed for rest and renewal, offering a deliberate pause from the pace of urban life.

A Broader View of Qatar

From Doha’s evolving street art scene to the waters of Al Shaheen and the calm of its wellness retreats, Qatar is presenting a more layered identity to the world. It is a destination where modern development meets cultural depth, natural wonder, and a growing emphasis on meaningful travel—offering experiences that resonate beyond the surface.

In Qatar, the story no longer ends at the Corniche—it begins beyond it.

(This feature is based on the Qatar Now material shared by the Embassy of Qatar through His Excellency Ahmed Saad Nasser Abdullah Al-Homidi to THEPHILBIZNEWS.)

As chair of this year’s ASEAN, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will join his fellow heads of state from 10 other member-countries of the regional bloc during the leaders’ summit on May 7 and 8.

During an ASEAN press briefing, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro said the province is prepared to host the leaders and their delegations for the summit.

“We in Cebu, we are ready,” Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro said.

Baricuatro said security preparations are already “80-percent complete,” with enhanced emergency response systems and hospitals on “code blue” alert throughout the summit.

She said rehearsals and dry runs will be conducted prior to the arrival of heads of state and delegates.

Delegations are expected to be concentrated in Lapu-Lapu City, where key summit activities will take place, including meetings at the newly constructed Mactan Expo in Mactan Newtown.

Nagiel Bañacia, head of the Lapu-Lapu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, said preparations in the city have been underway since December, including extensive information campaigns and traffic management planning.

Bañacia noted that road closures will be limited to convoy movements and will be reopened immediately after. He added that the two major bridges connecting Lapu-Lapu to mainland Cebu will remain open throughout the summit.

“We understand that daily life must continue even as we host this summit,” he said, adding that 70 to 90 percent of emergency preparedness measures are already in place.

Authorities have also identified key routes from the airport to Mactan resorts, where most delegates will be billeted.

In Cebu City, Mayor Nestor Archival said traffic management plans are in place, with no full-day road closures expected.

“So far, there will be no major road closures, but we are ready if adjustments are needed,” he said, citing coordination with police and traffic management groups. Delegates traveling from the airport to Cebu City are expected to pass through the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway.

In Mandaue City, Mayor Thadeo Ouano Jr. cited ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including road asphalting, improved street lighting, and solar installations along key transit routes. Barangays have also been mobilized for clean-up and repainting efforts.

Ouano said traffic flow will remain uninterrupted, with increased security presence and continuous monitoring during the summit.

The Department of Public Works and Highways reported that preparations for national roads have been completed and urged the public to maintain cleanliness and dispose of waste properly during the event.

Baricuatro expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host the summit and called on Cebu residents to extend a warm welcome to delegates.

“This is a momentous event. Cebu is featured among all the 82 provinces. Cebu has been chosen. That alone will inspire us to do our best, and let’s be hospitable to our guests. If there are delegates, give them a smile. Give them the warmest Cebuano welcome,” she said.

The initiative consolidates a range of support measures designed to sustain partner livelihoods, including expanded incentives, spot bonuses, and commission rebates — a core feature of the program.

A key component is the rollout of rebates through Grab Turbo, a newly introduced driving mode that enables driver-partners to optimize earnings through a more responsive incentive structure. Collectively, these measures have helped bring Grab’s effective commission rate for four-wheel mobility services down to 15%.

To strengthen transparency, Grab has also launched the Digital Earnings Tracker, a portal that allows GrabCar driver-partners to view detailed earnings breakdowns, including total fare, incentives, gross and net income, and effective commission rates.

Beyond mobility, Grab has expanded support for delivery partners through spot bonuses for completed delivery trips. As of mid-April, total delivery rider bonuses have surpassed ₱50 million. The company has also introduced bicycle subsidies for riders transitioning to bike-based delivery, along with performance-based rewards such as grocery credits, fuel subsidies, and medical vouchers.

Grab said the Bayanihan Fuel Crisis Support Program will remain in place as it continues to monitor fuel price movements and adjust support measures based on evolving partner needs, with the aim of safeguarding livelihoods across its platform ecosystem.

“When fuel prices rise, livelihoods are the first to feel it, and platforms like ours carry a responsibility to respond with the scale and speed that the moment requires,” said Grab Philippines Managing Director Ronald Roda. “The ₱350 million we have mobilized is designed to keep our driver- and delivery-partners on the road and their families steady through the crisis. This is what a platform is for, and it is the role Grab intends to keep playing.”

Grab also highlighted private-sector partnerships that have expanded fuel relief access for partners. Through tie-ups with fuel companies, discounted fuel programs have been made available to both four-wheel and two-wheel partners, including MOVE IT riders. Under its partnership with Seaoil alone, partners have generated over ₱2 million in fuel savings. Additional support through Shell Fleet Cards via Grab Financial Group delivered approximately ₱1 million in rebates in March alone.

Looking ahead, Grab underscored its long-term push toward sustainable mobility through its newly launched Eco-Drive Initiative, described as Southeast Asia’s largest EV financing coalition for ride-hailing. Launched in April 2026, the program brings together BDO and BPI; global automakers such as Toyota, BYD, and GAC; and distributors including Autohub Group and QSJ Motors Phil.

The initiative aims to accelerate EV and hybrid adoption among TNVS drivers through preferential green auto loans, flexible daily repayments via the Grab Driver Wallet, and exclusive vehicle discounts.

The Taiwanese Association of the Philippines strongly condemns the People’s Republic of China for turning international airspace into an instrument of political coercion against Taiwan.

Recent reports indicate that, under pressure from Beijing, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar revoked overflight clearances for the aircraft of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, forcing the cancellation of his planned April 22 visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini. This is not diplomacy. It is coercion in its clearest form.

For Filipinos, this should raise serious concern.

The Philippines knows all too well what coercive behavior looks like. In the West Philippine Sea, Filipino fishermen, sailors, and coast guard personnel have repeatedly faced harassment, intimidation, and obstruction. These acts threaten livelihoods, undermine sovereignty, and disregard international law.

What is happening now follows the same pattern—only in a different arena.

If international airspace can be manipulated today to isolate Taiwan, what is to stop similar pressure tomorrow from disrupting the Philippines’ own freedom of movement, trade routes, or diplomatic engagements?

This is no longer solely a Taiwan issue. It is a regional and global concern.

The skies, like the seas, are part of the global commons. They must remain governed by neutrality, safety, and internationally accepted rules. Once political intimidation determines who may fly and who may not, the foundations of the rules-based international order begin to erode.

Taiwan is a vibrant democracy and a reliable partner to the Philippines. Home to 23 million people, Taiwan elects its leaders freely and contributes significantly to regional trade, technology, investment, and people-to-people ties. It has every right to engage the international community without interference from any external power.

The Philippines understands the value of sovereignty, independence, and freedom. These are not abstract ideals—they are principles tested whenever smaller nations face external pressure.

That is why the international community, especially like-minded democracies, must take a firm and principled stand:

• Reject the weaponization of international airspace and all forms of diplomatic coercion.
• Uphold international law and ensure that global commons—whether seas or skies—remain free, open, and rules-based.
• Support Taiwan’s right to meaningful international engagement without intimidation.

Peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific depend on collective resolve. When coercion is tolerated, it expands. When it is confronted, it is contained.

Today the target is Taiwan. Tomorrow, it could be any nation—including the Philippines.

The question before the region is simple: Will we defend a rules-based order, or allow it to be rewritten through pressure and intimidation?

The answer will shape the future of the Indo-Pacific for generations to come.

In a statement issued April 17, 2026, the DFA said it has made “strong representations” on the matter, particularly for Filipinos entering Oman under visa-free arrangements.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs has made strong representations with the Oman Embassy in Manila for the removal of the negative HIV medical certificate requirement for all Filipino travellers to Oman,” the DFA said.

The Omani Embassy, according to the DFA, clarified that the requirement applies only to tourists availing of visa-free entry, and not to Filipinos holding work visas.

“The HIV certificate applies only to tourists availing of the visa-free entry to Oman, and not to those who were issued work visas,” the embassy said, as relayed by the DFA.

The requirement is now under review by Omani authorities, with a meeting scheduled to discuss the policy.

“The Embassy added that this requirement is currently being seriously reviewed by the Omani government, and that a meeting next week is set to discuss the matter,” the DFA noted.

Despite the issue, the Philippine government expressed optimism that the matter will be resolved soon.

“The DFA expects a positive outcome given the good and strong relationship between the Philippines and Oman,” it added.

Strong bilateral ties

The Philippines and Oman have maintained diplomatic relations since 1980, with cooperation spanning labor, energy, and trade. The relationship has also expanded into emerging areas such as tourism, food security, fisheries, and critical minerals, following recent high-level meetings between officials from both countries.

Oman has long been a key destination for Filipino workers in the Middle East, with around 45,000 to over 50,000 Filipinos currently living and working in the Gulf state, based on recent Philippine government and diplomatic estimates.

Filipinos in Oman are employed across a wide range of sectors — from domestic work and hospitality to healthcare, engineering, education, and skilled technical jobs — making labor mobility a central pillar of bilateral ties.

The issue of travel requirements comes amid ongoing efforts by both governments to strengthen cooperation and ensure the welfare and mobility of Filipinos, particularly as Oman continues to play a role in regional stability and the safety of overseas workers in times of crisis.

Romania’s Ambassador to the Philippines described her Manila posting as the most fulfilling of her 34-year diplomatic career, calling the country her “second home” as she reflected on deepening bilateral ties during a testimonial dinner hosted by President and CEO of the Natural Resources Development Corporation (NRDC), Judge Benjamin D. Turgano (Ret.), held Friday night, April 17, at The Executive House in the University of the Philippines Diliman.

Addressing diplomats, government officials, academe, and media, the ambassador expressed heartfelt gratitude to her Filipino hosts and partners, singling out key figures who helped strengthen cooperation between Romania and the Philippines—particularly in the field of education.

She recalled how early engagements in Manila led to meaningful institutional linkages, including collaborations between Philippine and Romanian universities, noting that such partnerships became a cornerstone of her diplomatic mission. The University of the Philippines, she emphasized, remained a “partner of choice,” especially as both countries marked 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2022.

Beyond formal engagements, the envoy highlighted the ease of building relationships in the Philippines, describing the openness of Filipinos and the accessibility of leaders as unique strengths that enriched her work. She also pointed to the country’s vibrant energy, natural beauty, and diverse cuisine as among the many reasons her posting stood out.

From discovering new Filipino dishes to forging lasting friendships, the ambassador shared that her time in the country went far beyond official duties. Together with her husband and embassy team, she said they found not just professional fulfillment, but a genuine sense of belonging.

She also acknowledged the support of Philippine institutions, including the Department of Foreign Affairs, and credited her embassy staff for contributing to the success of her tenure, describing them as “part and parcel” of the mission’s achievements.

Reflecting on previous assignments in global capitals, the ambassador noted that while each posting shaped her growth as a diplomat, Manila stood apart as the “crowning” experience of her career.

In closing, the ambassador left a message of confidence rather than farewell, affirming that she and her fellow diplomats “believe in the Philippines” and are convinced the country will achieve even greater success, with Romania remaining a steadfast partner and friend—“apparently far away, but actually also close.”

The event was attended by University of the Philippines President Atty. Angelo “Jijil” Jimenez, European Union Ambassador Massimo Santoro, Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts, Slovenian Ambassador Dr. Smiljana Knez, Brazilian Ambassador Gilberto Fonseca Guimarães de Moura, government officials, and members of the Romanian Embassy team.

Hosted by Hotel Okura Manila, the fifth Embassy Night brought together leaders from the diplomatic, business, and media industries for an evening that celebrated “the spirit of camaraderie, collective efforts, and continued progress.”

In his opening spiel, host and former broadcast journalist Bruce Rodriguez set the tone by acknowledging “20 of their Excellencies who have graced us with their presence for the Embassy Night – Year 5,” representing countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Among the ambassadors present were envoys from Austria, Belgium, Brazil, the Czech Republic, the European Union, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Norway, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Turkey, and Ukraine.

Beyond the ambassadors, representatives from a total of 30 embassies in the Philippines also attended, highlighting the event’s reach as a platform for dialogue on trade, investment, and cooperation.

Led by its Founder and Publisher, Monsi Alfonso Serrano, THEPHILBIZNEWS “has been at the forefront of delivering stories of progress in both diplomatic & business communities” and “remains the voice of diplomacy and investment in the Philippines.”

One of the evening’s main highlights was the presentation of the “Alab ng Likha: Parangal Sa Pambansang Sining” to renowned Filipino artist Popoy Cusi.

The citation recognized his “outstanding achievements in the international arts, including his twice-earned distinction in Who’s Who in International Art (Les Grande et Nouveaux Noms du Monde Artistique d’Aujourd’hui), Switzerland” and his “exceptional contributions to THEPHILBIZNEWS Embassy Night, creating commemorative artworks over the past three years that elevate the event with his distinctly Filipino artistry — at once quiet and evocative.”

The award was presented by Serrano together with Swiss Ambassador Nicolas Brühl.

As a token of appreciation, each guest received a commemorative mug designed by Cusi, “highlighting the Filipino fiesta game, palo sebo,” as THEPHILBIZNEWS marked its own “fiesta” for its 5th anniversary.

The program also featured the launch of the book “Lessons from the Pandemic,” written by Monsi Serrano and edited by Professor Danton Remoto. The book is “timely; it can serve as a guide to how the Philippines may face and adjust to another global crisis — this time brought by the war in the Middle East,” host Rodriguez said.

Three ambassadors took turns sharing insights on their countries’ partnerships with the Philippines and the European Union’s development agenda: Ambassador Christian Lyster of Norway, Germany’s Ambassador Dr. Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke, and EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro.