PRESS RELEASE
PR-112-2024
SINGAPORE, 23 September 2024 – As part of the Philippines-Singapore Business and Investment Summit (PSBIS) 2024 held in Shangri-la Singapore last 19 September 2024, Philippine Cabinet Secretaries Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Secretary Arsenio Balisacan of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) visited the Philippine exhibit at Gardens by the Bay. The secretaries were warmly welcomed by Gardens by the Bay Chief Operating Officer Mr. Ong Kian Ann and Conservatory Operations Director Mr. Christopher Dalzell; and Master Planning Director Mr. Jason Koo, respectively; and accompanied by the Embassy’s Cultural Officer Ms. Rosellie L. Bantay.
The secretaries toured the “Gardens by the Bahay Kubo: A Fiesta of Orchids” exhibit, which showcases a stunning array of the Philippines’ native fauna and floral treasures, including the majestic Waling-Waling (Vanda sanderiana), famously known as the “Queen of Orchids.” The exhibit also highlights the rich cultural and natural beauty of the Philippines, offering visitors a vivid display of the country’s biodiversity and heritage. The launch, held on 16 September 2024, was attended by Guest-of-Honor SG Minister of Manpower Tan See Leng, Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers Hans Leo Cacdac, Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Medardo G. Macaraig, along with members of the Filipino Community who participated in the cultural presentation of a traditional dance and a fashion show featuring indigenous weave inabel and the barong tagalog.
The secretaries were particularly impressed by the bahay kubo, with materials for its construction specially sourced from the Philippines. Inside the bahay kubo, a variety of Philippine cultural items, including native musical instruments, traditional games, and woven mats, can be seen. Adding to the charm of the display, Christmas parols (lanterns) were already hung inside the kubo—a reflection of the Philippines’ famous tradition of starting its Christmas season as early as September. More parols, including larger ones, will be added to the exhibit as December approaches, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.
The exhibit is among several activities commemorating the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Singapore.
The “Gardens by the Bahay Kubo: A Fiesta of Orchids” exhibit will remain open to the public until January 2025, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the Philippines’ natural wonders up close. END
