SEOUL, 30 May 2017 - The Philippine Embassy in Seoul, together with other diplomatic missions and organizations representing nearly 40 countries, participated in the 2017 World Food Festival held on 30 May 2017 at the historic Gwanghwamun Square in the center of downtown Seoul.

The event, which was hosted by the World Culinary Exchange Association, led by its Chairwoman Ryoo Hyun Mi, and supported by The Korea Post, was well-attended by government and civic figures as well as ambassadors and other members of Korea's diplomatic corps.

At the Opening Ceremony, Philippine Ambassador to South Korea Raul S. Hernandez, who delivered a congratulatory speech on behalf of all the ambassadors attending the Festival, underscored the importance of culinary culture in promoting social cohesion and mutual respect across different cultures.

"It is said that food feeds the soul and that every dish is a reflection of our country's norms, values, history, and traditions. It plays a role in constructing and shaping our identities - how geographical attributes and the historical evolution of cuisines, whether local or regional, help in the formation of a national identity."

"But regardless of how diverse our cuisines are, and the meaning they represent, food is indubitably the single great unifier across cultures ? promoting social cohesion and bridging gaps among peoples." said Ambassador Hernandez.

Taking the opportunity to highlight traditional Filipino cuisine at the inaugural Festival, the Philippine Embassy operated a food booth where local and foreign guests were treated to Filipino cuisine such as Pork Adobo, Pork Menudo, Longganisa, and Pansit Bihon.

In addition to the food booths, the Festival also showcased various cultural performances which included a colorful Hanbok Korean traditional costume parade and a wooden Jangseung (Korean totem) carving performance.


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