SEOUL, 23 JUNE 2025 — Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Theresa Dizon-De Vega hosted a diplomatic reception on 23 June 2025 at the Grand Ballroom of the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul in celebration of the 127th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence and 76 years of Philippines-Korea relations.

In her toast remarks, Ambassador Theresa Dizon-De Vega reflected on the enduring and evolving partnership between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea. The Ambassador highlighted milestones such as the elevation of relations to a Strategic Partnership, expanding defense cooperation, the Philippines-Korea Free Trade Agreement, and increased collaboration in maritime cooperation, science and technology, and cultural exchanges. 

The Ambassador also acknowledged the Republic of Korea’s support for regional peace and the rules-based system. “We are likewise grateful for Korea’s adding its voice to our advocacy for a rules-based international order, particularly at this critical time in history,” the Ambassador said. 

Ambassador Dizon-De Vega underscored the importance of the strategic partnership in shaping inclusive, sustainable regional growth, especially with upcoming APEC and ASEAN chairmanship roles for Korea and the Philippines. She celebrated close people-to-people ties, including through the expansion of the Philippine studies program in Korea, the launch of the book Dayo: Stories of Migration, and sports training exchanges. 

The Ambassador took the opportunity to express her heartfelt gratitude to the guests as she wraps up four fruitful years in South Korea, “As this is my final National Day celebration in Korea as Ambassador, allow me to say what a great honor it has been to serve my country in this dynamic, innovative, and beautiful nation. I take with me the warmth and generosity of the Korean people. And I am inspired by the remarkable journey of our two nations—from comrades in war to partners in peace and prosperity.” 

Guest of Honor Deputy Minister for Economic Affairs Kim Hee-sang praised the historic and evolving ties between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea in his remarks, highlighting key milestones such as the Philippines being the first ASEAN country to establish diplomatic relations with the Republic of Korea and send troops during the Korean War. He emphasized the importance of the recently implemented PH-ROK Free Trade Agreement as a foundation for deeper economic cooperation, particularly in supply chains, infrastructure, and renewable energy. 

He also noted continued defense collaboration and the strong people-to-people exchanges that bind the two nations, with 1.57 million Koreans visiting the Philippines in 2023. Citing shared values and cultural affinity, Deputy Minister Kim underscored the significance of the Strategic Partnership and joint commitment to a brighter future grounded in shared history, freedom, and a rules-based international order. He concluded with a nod to Ambassador De Vega’s impactful tenure in the Republic of Korea. 

The evening came alive with vibrant flavors, rich culture, and a festive spirit through the support of the Embassy’s esteemed partners. Filipino Chef Justin Sison, brought in by the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Seoul, wowed guests at the specialty Philippine food corner with his coconut-infused creations of gising gising (spicy green beans in coconut milk), chicken and pork adobo, and ube macapuno tartlets — showcasing the versatility of the Philippine coconut industry. 

A display featuring a variety of world-class Philippine coconut products through the Coconut Philippines program of the Department of Trade and Industry also wowed the guests upon their arrival to the reception venue. Fresh Philippine fruits courtesy of the Philippine Agriculture Office were also given to guests. 

Tanduay, one of the country’s oldest distilleries founded in 1854, presented Tanduay Rhum, the world’s top-selling rhum, through specially formulated cocktails Bayani (Hero) made with their signature dark rum and Kalayaan (Freedom) made with coconut-infused white rum. Guests were also treated to overflowing rhum in three different varieties (dark, white, and Boracay). Tanduay Rhum entered the Korean market in 2024. 

The Hansae Yes 24 Foundation showcased Korean-language editions of both classic and modern Filipino literary works including “Love on the Second Read” by Filipina contemporary author Mica De Leon and “The Woman with Two Navels” and “Tropical Gothic Tales” by acclaimed Filipino writer and artist Nick Joaquin through a promotional booth. 

Guests enjoyed a dazzling performance of Philippine folk songs, classic Opera pieces, and contemporary songs by The Nightingales, a soprano duo from the world-famous Philippine Madrigal Singers Company of artists 

Popular Korean actor and singer and Philippine Tourism Ambassador Seo In-guk sent a heartfelt video greeting, while two lucky winners walked away with exciting prizes from Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, JPark, and Plantation Bay Cebu. 

At the end of the festivities, guests took home specially curated gift bags with Philippine coconut-infused products and Love the Philippines gift items.  END