Ambassador Macaraig also highlighted new areas of bilateral cooperation such as carbon credits, biodiversity conservation, and digital innovation, as well as the Philippines’ upcoming ASEAN Chairship in 2026. He further paid tribute to the 220,000-strong Filipino community in Singapore for their contributions to sectors such as healthcare, education, finance, and the arts.

In his response, Minister Chee congratulated the Philippines and expressed confidence in the continued growth of Philippine-Singapore relations, anchored on mutual trust, shared regional priorities, and robust people-to-people ties.

This year’s reception broke new ground with an all-Filipino culinary experience served by the Orchard Hotel Singapore. Additional Filipino favorites were featured at food stalls by the Embassy’s Food Trek partners namely Don Lechon, Lechon Republic, Nanay’s Kitchen (featuring halal offerings), and Second Serving. 

The evening’s program also showcased the cultural vibrancy and musical talent distinct of Filipinos. The Embassy’s resident band performed six (6) songs, including a heartfelt rendition of Coldplay’s “Man on the Moon” by Ambassador Macaraig himself, as a musical tribute to Singapore’s 60th anniversary of nationhood (SG60). The Embassy family added a light-hearted song and dance performance of the “Coconut Song,” a song composed by Filipino national artist Ryan Cayabyab. Live music was further enlivened by Mhix Flava, an all-Filipino band known for their performances at Octapas by El Mesa in Clark Quay, also a Food Trek partner.

The celebration forms part of the Embassy’s multi-year observance of the Philippines’ journey to independence, under the theme Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan. (Freedom. Future. History.) – a reminder of the Filipino people’s enduring aspiration for sovereignty, progress, and historical awareness. END