PRESS RELEASE | PR-180-2026
SINGAPORE, 15 June 2026 — In celebration of the 128th Anniversary of Philippine Independence, the Philippine Embassy in Singapore hosted a diplomatic reception held on 11 June 2026 at Pan Pacific Orchard Singapore. The event brought together representatives from the Singapore Government, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, and partners from the cultural and media sectors.
Singapore Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan graced the occasion as Guest of Honor, together with Members of Parliament Mr. Vikram Nair and Mr. Yip Hon Weng.
In his remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Singapore H.E. Medardo G. Macaraig underscored the strong and growing relationship between the two countries – one that is built on decades of friendship, mutual trust, and cooperation in trade and investment, education, culture, people-to-people exchanges, and regional affairs. He likewise emphasized the role of culture and the arts in fostering deeper understanding among both peoples.
Ambassador Macaraig also expressed the Philippines’ appreciation to Singapore, particularly to Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, for his support in helping bring to fruition the construction of the new Philippine Embassy Chancery at Nassim Road. The Ambassador’s acknowledgment of the project’s completion received the warmest applause from guests, with the Chancery underscored as a testament to the enduring partnership and longstanding ties between the Philippines and Singapore.
Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, in turn, underscored the valuable contributions of Filipinos to Singapore society, particularly Filipino healthcare professionals and household service workers, whose dedication and hard work have positively impacted the lives of many Singaporeans.
The reception reflected the Filipino spirit of bayanihan, drawing on the talents and collective efforts of Embassy personnel, members of the Filipino creative community in Singapore, and the Embassy’s Food Trek and Art Trek partners. Through collaboration, the event showcased Filipino creativity, culture, and hospitality, presenting the best of the Philippines to friends and partners in Singapore. The event was also documented by Singapore-based Filipino photographer Mr. Mark Duma of Dumarks Production.
Guests were treated to a musical program led by Ambassador Macaraig and the Embassy’s Adobo Club band, composed of in-house Embassy talents, their family members, and Filipino musicians based in Singapore. The repertoire featured a mix of classic international hits, Broadway favorites, and Original Pilipino Music (OPM), which provided a lively soundtrack to the evening’s celebration.
The event featured an art exhibition mounted in partnership with VAM International Art Gallery, showcasing works by Filipino artists Owie Chong, Jun Impas, Lander Blanza, Darwin Guevarra, Danny Rayos Del Sol, Rebie Abas, Patrick Naval, Danny Santiago, and Richard Buxani. The exhibition formed part of the Embassy’s continuing efforts to promote Philippine culture and creative industries abroad.
Guests were likewise treated to a showcase of Filipino cuisine through food booths featuring Singapore-based Filipino food establishments, including Don Lechon, Lechon Republic, Ritch’s Lechon, Gerry’s Grill, Jollibee, Second Serving, and Emperador. Many of the participating establishments are featured in the Embassy’s newly launched publication,
“Flavors of Diplomacy: The Philippine Food Guide in the Lion City”, which highlights Filipino restaurants, food businesses, and entrepreneurs that contribute to Singapore’s vibrant food landscape.
In collaboration with the Philippine Trade and Investment Centre-Singapore and Philippine Airlines, the event also featured Philippine food products from participating Filipino exporters and brands, including Regent, Auro Chocolates, Kangkong King, Villa Socorro Farms, and Year Luck Foods. Featured products were included in specially curated goodie bags distributed to guests, providing attendees an opportunity to bring home a taste of the Philippines.
This year’s celebration carried added significance as the Philippines and Singapore serve consecutively as ASEAN Chair. Amid an increasingly complex global environment, both countries continue to champion dialogue, cooperation, and regional solidarity in support of a peaceful, resilient, and prosperous Southeast Asia.
At a time when Filipinos continue to face challenges both at home and abroad, the reception served as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and community spirit that remain at the heart of the Filipino identity.
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