14 June 2022, Seoul - The Philippine Embassy in Korea held its first traditional Diplomatic Reception in three years. The event was held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Itaewon, Seoul with 200 guests from the diplomatic corps, the Korean Government, and partners of the Philippines in the economic, security, political, cultural, educational, artistic, labor, agriculture, tourism, media, and other fields.

In her toast remarks, Philippine Ambassador Theresa Dizon-De Vega recalled the sacrifices of Filipino heroes as well as modern-day Filipinos as they navigate the increasingly complex path towards a peaceful, just, progressive, and sustainable future. She likewise celebrated the enduring and historic ties between the Philippines and Korea forged during the Korean War and moving ever forward. The Philippines and Korea mark 73 years of diplomatic relations and will commemorate a milestone 75 years of ties in 2024.

Korean Defense Acquisition Program Authority (DAPA) Minister Kang Eun-Ho and Trade, Industry, and Energy Deputy Minister Dr. Chun Yoon-Joong offered congratulatory remarks on the occasion. They joined Ambassador Carlos Victor Bongou, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and also Non-resident Ambassador of Gabon to the Philippines and Director General Cecilia Chung of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a ceremonial cake-cutting with Ambassador De Vega.

Cultural performances by vocalist Mr. Yuli Leonor and the Pearl of the Orient and Filipino Catholic Community of Seoul cultural groups further enlivened the occasion. Some of the guests also danced the popular folkdance "Tinikling" with the performers.

Philippine cuisine, drinks, and fruits were enjoyed by the guests while Cebu Pacific Airlines gave away two roundtrip tickets for Seoul to Manila for the evening's lucky draw.

Other major Philippine events this month include starting this week an interactive travel promotion event organized by the Philippine Department of Tourism Korea office with the support of travel industry partners at the newest and trendiest mall in Korea - The Hyundai Seoul from 14 to 20 June. There will likewise be a Filipino Community Leaders' Forum on 18 June to be held in person for the first time in more than two years in Seoul in time for Philippine Independence Month and Migrant Workers' Month and the commemoration of the birth anniversary of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal at the Sentro Rizal-Seoul on 19 June. END