Philippine Ambassador to Portugal Pays Courtesy Call on Mayor of Castelo de Vide to Mark “Philippine Weekend” Celebrations

Castelo de Vide, 06 June 2025 -  Philippine Ambassador to Portugal, Paul Raymund P. Cortes, paid a courtesy call on Mayor António Pita of the Municipality of Castelo de Vide on Wednesday, 04 June 2025, ahead of the Philippine weekend celebrations taking place from 06 to 08 June 2025 in Castelo de Vide, Portugal.

Organized by the Philippine Embassy in Lisbon in partnership with the Municipality of Castelo de Vide and the Terras sem Sombra Festival, the “Philippine Weekend” forms part of the celebration of the 127th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence. Ambassador Cortes was joined by members of the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers, who are set to perform a special concert at the historic Igreja Matriz on Saturday, 07 June, 2025 at 9:30pm. The concert is part of the Terras sem Sombra Festival, where the Philippines is currently the Country Guest of Honor.

Complementing the cultural program is the Mercadinho Filipino (Filipino Little Market), which will run from Friday to Sunday and will feature Filipino cuisine, Philippine-made products, and artisanal crafts. The weekend’s events offer Portuguese and international audiences a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Filipino culture and traditions.

During the courtesy call, Ambassador Cortes conveyed his deepest gratitude to Mayor Pita and the people of Castelo de Vide for their warm hospitality. He emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges in strengthening ties.

Ambassador Cortes expressed hope that the Philippine Madrigal Singers would get to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Castelovidenses. He also wished that the concert would serve as “a bridge between Philippines and Portugal despite the geographical distance. In the end, all that matters is our humanity.”

Mayor Pita welcomed the Philippine delegation and expressed his appreciation for the Embassy’s active role in fostering cultural cooperation.

The celebration of Philippine Independence in Castelo de Vide is a meaningful expression of friendship, cultural solidarity, and shared values between the Philippines and Portugal.

Through the  planned festivities in Castelo de Vide, the Philippine Embassy aims to share Filipino culture and heritage, and strengthen the enduring friendship between the Philippines and Portugal. END