PH Embassy in Beijing holds fair to mark 50 years of ties

Photo courtesy of the Philippine Embassy in Beijing

MANILA, Philippines —  The Philippine Embassy in Beijing showcased Filipino culture—including the country’s tourist spots—through a fair held in China on Saturday.

In a statement on Sunday, the embassy said the fair is part of “the commemorative activities marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.” It featured about 40 booths offering Filipino dishes, edible and non-edible products, and traditional Filipino games.

Photo courtesy of the Philippine Embassy in Beijing

“This fair is a reminder of our Filipino brand of goodwill and hospitality. “It is also a reaffirmation of our determination to promote even more vibrant and enduring people-to-people ties,” Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz said.

A tarsier sculpture around 134 cm tall created by artist Lin Yuwen was unveiled during the fair, which the embassy said “blends Chinese craftsmanship and a Filipino cultural icon.”

FlorCruz also unveiled a painting of Binondo by Filipino-Chinese artist couple Hau Chiok and Sy Chiu Hua. Binondo is the oldest Chinatown in the world, located in Manila.

Aside from the sculpture and paintings, the embassy said the event also featured a live band performance by Filipino community members, members of the diplomatic corps and Chinese officials.

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“Seeking to provide audiences with a rich and immersive experience of Filipino culture, members of the Filipino community held a live cooking demonstration of renowned Philippine dishes such as Bicol express and tortang talong,” the embassy said.

“Attendees also witnessed a performance of arnis, the traditional Filipino martial art practiced by Filipino and foreign nationals,” it added.