On June 1, 2024, the grand finale of “The Embassy of Italy meets the Youth of Tondo” festival was held at the SPA Multi-Purpose Court of San Pablo Apostol Parish in Tondo, Manila.
Organized by the Embassy of Italy with the Canossa-Tondo Children’s Foundation Inc. (CTCFI), the event celebrated the 78th Republic Day of Italy, traditionally celebrated on June 2 in Italy, with a talent show, supported by Megaworld, VFS Global, L’Opera, Magsaysay, Philippine Italian Association, Rustan’s, SMEG, Velocita’ Motors Inc., Xanadu, Caruso, Cibo, Da Gianni, Focus Global, Italfood Inc., and Tavolo.
During the program, Hon. Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna-Pangan, CTCFI Managing Directress Tess F. Carmelo, CTCFI Founder and Vice President Fr. Giovanni Gentilin, FdCC, Archbishop Charles John Brown, and Ambassador Marco Clemente of the Italian Embassy conveyed their messages.
In a performance, children from Tondo portrayed their journey and experience in the Nave Morosini through storytelling which inspired them to travel to Italy.
The highlight of the evening was the series of performances featuring famous Italian personalities such as Leonardo da Vinci, and Maria Montessori, and the CTCFI students beneficiaries who performed the traditional songs and dances.