26 March 2014 - Supporting its cultural, economic and public diplomacy objectives, the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa joined some 20 country exhibitors at the 20th Annual Celebration of Cultures held at the Algonquin College on 25 March 2014.

Organized by the Algonquin Student Support Services and Students' Association, the yearly campus event showcases the rich cultural diversity that characterizes the Algonquin community and attracts hundreds of young Canadians to experience the world for free.

Alongside the Bahamas, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Costa Rica, Denmark, the Dominican Republic, Georgia, Honduras, Indonesia, Jamaica, Nigeria, Peru, Rwanda, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Sweden, Trinidad and Tobago, the Philippine Embassy presented the many facets of Filipino cultural heritage and island attractions.

Over 500 students visited the Philippine booth to sample the popular pancit bihon and other Philippine snacks sold in Canadian groceries. During their quick "trip to the Philippines", the students also appreciated the shell craft, baskets and weaves from various parts of the country.

"We are thankful to Algonquin College for providing a regular platform to present cultures of the world, including the Philippines', in order to broaden the worldview of their students, faculty and staff. Our participation in this Celebration of Cultures is also a source of pride for Filipino-Canadian students enrolled in Algonquin. We are happy to see them every year with friends of different ethnicities in tow," Philippine Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia said. END