“Love of food is universal, and makes friends of strangers.”  This was what Ambassador Erlinda F. Basilio said to her guests during the diplomatic reception on June 17 to celebrate the 115th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, and to mark the formal opening of the Philippine food festival called “Flavors of the Philippines”.  Ambassador Basilio extended an invitation to her guests at the diplomatic reception to sample the Filipino specialties prepared by Chef Rolando Laudico and Chef Jac Laudico for the occasion. 

In her speech at the reception, she recognized the cultural interactions in Asia, which span centuries, by acknowledging that “we have been enriched by influences from all over the world.  These foreign influences are markedly pronounced in our cuisine and food culture.”

Before the reception, Ambassador Basilio stopped by the Westin Beijing Chaoyang kitchens to personally greet Chefs Rolando and Jacqueline Laudico, and briefly exchanged pleasantries with the Chinese chefs collaborating with the Philippine guest chefs.