To commemorate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Brunei Darussalam and the Philippines, the Embassy of Brunei, in partnership with the National Commission for Culture in the Arts (NCCA), hosted a fashion show titled “Brunei Darussalam-Philippines: The Fabrics of Friendship”.
The celebration led by Brunei Darussalam Ambassador Megawati Manan, was held last Nov. 6 at the Shangri-La The Fort, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
Celebrating the vibrant cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations, the grand occasion was attended by First Lady Marie Louise "Liza" Araneta-Marcos, Ambassador-At-Large Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brunei Darussalam, Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo, National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chair Victorino Mapa Manalo, and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Archbishop Charles Brown.
The fashion event featured the works of Filipino fashion designers Lyle Ibañez and M Barreto, and Bruneian fashion designers Na Forrer and Fadzil Hadin who showcased their creations that reflected the rich cultural heritage and modern innovations of both countries.
In her speech, Ambassador Manan expressed hope that the creations of the Brunei designers will further reflect the strong interweaving friendship of the two countries. She also stated "As close neighbors, the Philippines was among the first countries in the region to establish diplomatic ties with Brunei when we gained independence in 1984. A week later, the Philippines also embraced Brunei as the sixth member of ASEAN, a regional association that has become the cornerstone of Brunei's foreign policy."
"Brunei and the Philippines have woven the fabric of friendship for 40 years, and we will continue to do so for the next 40 years. The unveiling of the commemorative anniversary logo and this fashion show are symbols of our nation's tradition in this journey of cultural exchange," she added.
For his part, NCCA Chair Manalo remarked, "Today's event is a remarkable representation of our cultural resources. Through the creative expressions of our artists, we celebrate the shared cultural heritage of our two nations, interwoven much like threads and fabric."
The Embassy also unveiled the 40th-anniversary logo of Brunei-Philippines diplomatic relations on the same occasion.
