12 June 2018 - The Embassy of the Philippines in Beijing hosted a diplomatic reception in celebration of the 120th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence on 12 June 2018 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Vice Minister Kong Xuanyou of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs graced the event as Guest of Honor.

Ambassador Jose Santiago L. Sta. Romana during his welcome remarks.

Mr. Guo Weimin, Vice Minister of the State Council  Information Office, Mr. Zhang Jianguo, Vice Minister for State Administration for Foreign Experts Affairs, Mr. Li Baodong, Secretary General of Bo'ao Forum for Asia Secretariat and Madame Yang Xiuping, Secretary General of ASEAN-China Centre were among the notable dignitaries who graced the national day reception.

In his remarks, Ambassador Jose Santiago L. Sta. Romana noted that China has become an important political and economic partner of the Philippines and is currently the Philippines' top trading partner and second top source market for tourists. He further noted China's substantial assistance in the rebuilding of the city of Marawi in the Southern Philippines.

After his remarks, Ambassador Sta. Romana invited Vice Minister Kong to the stage for a toast and cake cutting ceremony to celebrate the friendship between the two countries.

Ambassador Jose Santiago L. Sta. Romana (left) and Vice Minister Kong Xuanyou (right) during the cake-cutting ceremony.

Ms. Jennifer C. Gallardo, Mr. Jomer M. Guevarra, and Mr. JC M. Mangilit, Filipino performers based in Beijing, entertained guests with OPM ballad and contemporary songs.

Guests enjoyed Filipino cuisine such as  beef kaldereta, Filipino style beef steak and chicken adobo along with other western and Chinese dishes.

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The event, with an estimated total of 300 guests, was attended by officials of the Chinese Government, members of the diplomatic corps, members of the business community and the academe.

Group photo of Embassy personnel and staff.

Tourism bags with brochures and flyers for the upcoming food festival in July 2018 and Ballet Philippines performance in August 2018 were given to guests as giveaways.END.