I celebrated another trip around the sun on June 10 and didn’t have any plans, except for watching the famous Japanese taiko group Yamato.

It was a rainy Saturday, but I was really excited to go to the Solaire Theater just for this. I love taiko performances. There’s always something captivating about them, and the Yamato drummers are world-renowned for their high-energy shows. This performance was no exception.

From the moment they began, the synchronized drumming was mesmerizing, and the powerful sound of the drums filled the theater, immersing the audience in the performance. Throughout the show, the Yamato drummers showcased their incredible skill and technique.

PASSION! Members of the Yamato Drummers with some of the audience after their successful performance at the Solaire Theater (Photo from the Japanese Embassy)

The group used a range of drums, including the o-daiko, a massive drum that can weigh up to 600 pounds. Despite its size, the drummers played it with incredible speed and precision, demonstrating their impressive physical abilities. These latest shows in Manila and Davao mark the group’s return to the Philippines in over a decade. The group has had 4,000 performances in 54 countries.

The Yamato drummers also incorporated choreography and theatrical elements into their performance, adding an extra layer of excitement and drama. Their passion and energy were infectious, and the audience was fully engaged throughout the show. Sometimes humorous, sometimes interactive, they have a remarkable ability to draw the audience in.

YAMATO DRUMMERS A truly captivating performance (Photo from the Yamato Drummers Instagram)

The Yamato drummers’ encore performance struck a chord with the audience as they played the Philippine National Anthem. This heartfelt tribute showcased the power of music to unite people, evoking a sense of unity and pride. Filipinos in the audience enthusiastically sang along, marking a positive change in our collective response to our national anthem at diplomatic events.

Yamato’s performance was truly unforgettable, showcasing their remarkable skill, passion, and dedication. It served as a beautiful celebration of Japanese culture, highlighting the unifying power of music and the significance of cultural exchange. With successful shows in Manila and Davao, congratulations to the Japanese Embassy and the Japan Foundation for organizing such a memorable event. It was a fantastic birthday present!

Sweden pioneers the green transition on its national day

TO SWEDEN-PH RELATIONS From left: Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Charles Brown, Swedish Ambassador Annika Thunborg, DENR Secretary Toni Yulo Loyzaga, and DFA Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro at the 2023 Swedish National Day (Photo from Swedish Embassy)

The Swedish Embassy in Manila celebrated its national day and 500 years of their nation, emphasizing the commonalities and bonds between our countries. The embassy organized a business forum and a vibrant celebration centered around the theme of pioneering the green transition, highlighting the importance of sustainable measures for socio-economic development.

“Our countries are located on opposite sides of the world. But despite the great geographical distance, there is plenty that binds us together and many commonalities between our nations,” stated Swedish Ambassador Annika Thunborg during her speech.

Sweden excels in sustainability, ranking third in the 2022 Sustainable Development Goals Report and fifth in the Climate Change Performance Index. Team Sweden in Manila actively promotes a green energy transition, sustainable transport, circular economy, and other environmental measures.

Their innovative “quadruple helix model” fosters collaboration among the Philippine government, Swedish and Filipino private sectors, development institutions, academia, and civil society advocates.

“In rapidly growing economies, a green sustainable transition will assist with socio-economic development. Sustainability in all aspects—environmental, social, and economic—is part of this and will lead to inclusion and better health and quality of life for all,” said Ambassador Thunborg. She later added how they take great pride in having over 40 Swedish companies in the Philippines practicing sustainability in their business operations.

From energy companies to retail giants like Ikea and H&M, even Scania and Volvo leading in sustainable public transport solutions. Together, they are making a notable impact on environmental sustainability.

Secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro of the Department of Foreign Affairs were present at the event. Yulo reaffirmed the Philippine government’s unwavering commitment to the green transition for socio-economic development.

Usec. Lazaro, who led the Philippine delegation at the 5th Political Consultations in Stockholm back in April, sees a bright future in the two countries’ relations. “We anticipate a long-term partnership between the Philippines and Sweden, as we continue to strengthen our engagement in energy, trade, infrastructure, green transition, development cooperation, and defense,” Usec. Lazaro asserted.

New Zealand on sports diplomacy and women empowerment

FROM FENCER TO DIPLOMAT Amb. Kell notes how sport can be a platform for inspiration, motivation, and opportunities (Photo from NZ Embassy)

The New Zealand Embassy in Manila recently hosted an empowering event dedicated to women in sports, fueling excitement for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. Held at the University of the Philippines Diliman Varsity Training Center, the event featured a panel of luminaries, including Senator Pia Cayetano as the keynote speaker.

The event highlighted the importance of gender equality in sports and inspired individuals of all backgrounds and ages. “I, myself, ay isang dating atleta. Dati akong fencer (I used to be an athlete. I was a fencer),” said NZ Ambassador Peter Kell. “I fenced competitively for over 10 years and competed internationally for New Zealand. My travels abroad due to fencing opened my eyes at nadiskubre ko ang passion ko sa diplomasya (I discovered my passion for diplomacy). Isa iyon sa mga dahilan kung bakit ko ginagawa ang kasalukuyan kong larangan at kung bakit nandito ako ngayon kasama ninyong lahat (This is one of the reasons I do what I do now, and why I am here with you all).” Kell hopes events like this will serve as an inspiration in working toward a future where women in sports are celebrated and valued but also to see sports as a great platform for tremendous opportunities.

Kell’s team also hosted a send-off party for members of Filipinas, our women’s football team, before they head to the FIFA Women’s World Cup this year. For the first time, the event is being hosted by two countries—New Zealand and Australia.