6 July 2012 - Riding high on the wave of promising reports on the Philippine economy, the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa kept its economic diplomacy momentum going with a national day reception on 6 July 2012 at the Ambassador's official residence.
Members of Parliament (MPs) Joe Daniel (Member, Canada-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship Group) and François Pilon as well as His Worship, Mayor Jim Watson of Ottawa, represented the Canadian government during the occasion. Also in attendance were high officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), Transport Canada, Fisheries & Oceans Canada, Health Canada, the Public Service Commission, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, representatives of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Ogden Pond, Export Development Canada, the Trade Facilitation Office Canada, Tours Hai International, in addition to the members of the diplomatic corps, local media and the Filipino community.
In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Leslie B. Gatan thanked his guests for reserving a splendid Canadian summer evening to feast on Philippine art, music and food. The Ambassador recalled the historic events that shaped the Filipino nation, from its colonial era to the present Republic, while highlighting the Philippines' shared experiences with Canada in two World Wars, the Korean War and the United Nations. "The Phiilppines and Canada are champions of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Both countries share many cultural values such as devotion to God, country and family," he added. Ambassador Gatan expressed the hope that the instrument signed by Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert F. Del Rosario and Foreign Minister John Baird on 21 June 2012 on the Establishment of a Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) would broaden and deepen Philippines-Canada partnership.
Speaking on behalf of Canada, the Honorable Joe Daniel, Member of Parliament and of the Philippines-Canada Friendship Group conveyed the personal greetings of The Right Honorable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada. "Canada and the Philippines are continually strengthened by the nearly 500,000 Canadians who can trace their roots to the Philippines. With their efforts, they contribute to our country's prosperity in all fields of endeavour. This gathering allows you to reflect on the events that have shaped the history of the Philippines and to celebrate its many achievements since independence," the message read.
Opening the painting exhibit Sining were Amb. Gatan, Mr. Daniel, Mayor Watson and Mr. Masalunga. Capturing the essence of the Filipino people and their traditions, the works of Rolly Abarilla, Jun Afable, Teody Asuncion, Frank Cruzet, Jhun Diamante, Romi C. MananQuil, Koni Marcoux, Omel Masalunga, Calixto ‘Toots' Quiachon, Michelle Ramos, Mark Salinas, Frank Tonido and Nelia Tonido proudly adorn the walls of the Ambassador's residence which has been transformed into a veritable showcase of Filipino artistry.
After feasting their eyes on portraits revealing the Filipino psyche, guests were entertained with music for the soul by an outstanding set of Filipino performers which included classically-trained singer Lilac Caña, singing champion Gian Carlo Bobila, multi-awarded pianist Jonathan Bondoc, gifted singer-actor Jared Philippe and the talented siblings Felix, Iñigo, Emma and Elaina comprising the Gauthier-Mamaril Quartet.
Over 200 invitees enjoyed a delectable assortment of Filipino-style hors d'oeuvres such as adobo satay, lumpiang sariwa, ukoy, kwek-kwek, empanaditas, and banana and kamote crisps prepared by professional Canadian chefs. The pancit and halo-halo stations drew long lines of delighted guests wanting more Filipino food. The Philippines' famous San Miguel Beer as well as refreshing Philippine coconut and mango juices made up for the summer heat.
Guests were unanimous in labelling the reception the best yet by the Philippine Embassy. "The cultural showcase we offered to our guests today raises our country's profile in Canada. Our efforts here complement the Embassy's initiatives to open more doors to trade, investments and tourism for the country. Team Philippines-Canada continues to go the extra mile in attaining our economic diplomacy objectives," Ambassador Gatan remarked.
