PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN PORTUGAL JOINED ASEAN EMBASSIES AT THE SOUTHEAST ASIAN DAY CELEBRATIONS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF LISBON
16 May 2023 - The Philippine Embassy in Portugal joined the Embassies of Indonesia and Thailand at the yearly Southeast Asian Day organized by the Asian Studies League of the University of Lisbon on 10 May 2023.
This year’s Southeast Asian Day featured a series of activities highlighting the rich culture, heritage, and traditions of Southeast Asia. The students of the University of Lisbon were treated to a diverse program that included interactive workshops, traditional music and dance performances, insightful lectures, and authentic gastronomic experiences.
The Philippine Embassy booth was draped in colorful T’nalak fabrics in various patterns and hues. The Embassy prepared promotional giveaway materials on Philippine tourist destinations and a display of handicrafts as well as traditional Philippine board games such as Sungka and Dama. The booth served as a learning space for students to discover the best of the Philippines.
Minister and Consul General Reginald Bernabe of the Philippine Embassy in Portugal, joined by his counterparts from the Indonesian and Thai Embassies, delivered an insightful lecture on the history and background of ASEAN, its relations with its dialogue partners particularly the EU, as well as on the current Chairmanship of ASEAN by Indonesia.
During the Filipino language session, students had the opportunity to learn and practice basic Filipino greetings and useful phrases. And after the language lessons, they had the chance to savor delicious meals prepared by food entrepreneurs from the Filipino community including A Diplomata, Panindang Pinoy sa Portugal, and Mamita’s Kitchen. Adobo, Pancit, Halo-halo, and Sago't Gulaman were particularly favored by the students.
Ending the whole day event, the students enjoyed the different dance performances which culminated in a fashion show of costumes from the three Southeast Asian countries. Dancers from the Filipino community showcased their interpretation of the Kappa Malong Dance, while members of the Asian Studies League paraded through the faculty halls donning contemporary Filipiniana costumes.
The Philippines’ annual participation in the Southeast Asian Day, organized by the Asian Studies League, is one of the student-led events participated by the Philippine Embassy in raising awareness of the Philippines among young Portuguese students by enriching their understanding and appreciation of Philippine culture thereby fostering deeper people-to-people linkages between Filipinos and Portuguese.
