The Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Joseph Del Mar Yap and his wife Madame Lourdes Josephine Gotianun Yap hosted a diplomatic reception at Shangri-la Hotel Singapore on 22 June 2018 to mark the 120th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence.
The reception was graced by more than 300 guests including Singapore officials, members of the diplomatic corps, leaders and representatives of the business community, think-tanks, academe and members of the Filipino community in Singapore.
Singapore Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Home Affairs Josephine Teo was the Guest of Honour. Minister Teo was joined by Mr. Sitoh Yih Pin, Member of Parliament for Potong Pasir Single Member Constituency, and Mr. Chong Kee Hiong, Member of Parliament for Bishan-Toa Payoh Group Representation Constituency.
In his speech, Ambassador Yap noted that our independence inspires us to redouble our efforts towards achieving a prosperous and comfortable life for all Filipinos in line with President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s mandate and the aspirations of our people. Furthermore, Ambassador Yap looked forward to further strengthening Philippines-Singapore bilateral ties through more exchanges in economic, security, cultural and other areas. As the Philippines’ greatest resources is its people, the Embassy looks forward to more people-to-people exchanges in the future, especially among the youth.
Minister Teo reiterated the statement of Ambassador Yap regarding the vibrant growth of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Singapore and looked forward to the 50th anniversary of Philippines-Singapore bilateral relations next year. Among the diplomatic receptions that she has attended, she always looks forward to the Embassy’s event as it is vibrant and colourful.
In line with the Embassy’s economic diplomatic thrust, the diplomatic reception also showcased various Philippine brands such as Jollibee, San Miguel Ice Cream, Malagos Chocolate, Sarangani Bay Prime Bangus, Orient Pearl, Gerry’s Grill, Emperador Brandy and Prime Food which were a hit with the guests. BDO Unibank, Metro Remitance-Singapore Pte. Ltd, LBC, PNB and PLDT Smart World also supported the diplomatic reception.
The event featured the officers and staff of the Philippine Embassy in their elegant Filipiniana. Filipino talents, Mark Anthony Canios and Chiara Cataran, mesmerized the audience with their rendition of Kudiman songs. END