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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies at Work devider International bazaar 2025 opens in Pasay City, showcasing global fellowship and generosity

International bazaar 2025 opens in Pasay City, showcasing global fellowship and generosity

Published Nov 30, 2025 07:10 pm
Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, Secretary of Foreign Affairs and IBF Chair, formally opened the program with her remarks.
Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, Secretary of Foreign Affairs and IBF Chair, formally opened the program with her remarks.
The World Trade Center tent in Pasay City came alive with color, culture and camaraderie as the 59th International Bazaar officially opened its doors on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025. Spearheaded by Secretary of Foreign Affairs and International Bazaar Foundation (IBF) Chair Hon. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, the annual event drew hundreds of guests from the diplomatic and consular corps, Philippine government and the wider public.
Organized by the International Bazaar Foundation, Inc. in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Diplomatic and Consular Corps of the Philippines and the Spouses of the Heads of Mission, the bazaar has long been a cherished tradition marking the start of the holiday season.
Ribbon cutting was led by Secretary of Foreign Affairs and International Bazaar Foundation Chair Hon. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, with (from left) SHOM representative Arkadiusz Tracz, guest of honour Hon. Maria Rachel J. Arenas, and IBF President Consul Betty Ang.
Ribbon cutting was led by Secretary of Foreign Affairs and International Bazaar Foundation Chair Hon. Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, with (from left) SHOM representative Arkadiusz Tracz, guest of honour Hon. Maria Rachel J. Arenas, and IBF President Consul Betty Ang.
This year’s edition featured 180 booths showcasing products from 42 embassies and 21 Philippines’ Best exhibitors, a mix of handicrafts, specialty goods and cultural treasures, and performances by the DFA Chorale and cultural presentations from different embassies.
The ceremonial ribbon cutting was led by Secretary Lazaro, IBF President Consul Betty Ang, Spouses of the Heads of Mission representative Arkadiusz Tracz and guest of honor Hon. Maria Rachel J. Arenas, representative of the Third District of Pangasinan.
Spouses of the Heads of Mission representative Arkadiusz Tracz delivered his message, and guest of honour Representative Maria Rachel J. Arenas shared her remarks.
Spouses of the Heads of Mission representative Arkadiusz Tracz delivered his message, and guest of honour Representative Maria Rachel J. Arenas shared her remarks.
In her opening remarks, Secretary Lazaro highlighted the deeper purpose of the bazaar: “The International Bazaar is not just about shopping—it is about fellowship and generosity of the human spirit. Our theme, Shop Global, Help Local, reminds us that every purchase here makes a difference.”
Guest of honor Representative Maria Rachel J. Arenas echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the diplomatic community’s role in strengthening ties: “This gathering is diplomacy at its most human—where friendship flourishes through shared purpose and empathy.”
The bazaar became a vibrant social gathering, bringing together members of the diplomatic circle, government officials, and shoppers alike.
The bazaar became a vibrant social gathering, bringing together members of the diplomatic circle, government officials, and shoppers alike.
Delivering a message on behalf of Spouses of the Heads of Mission, Arkadiusz Tracz, spouse of Hungarian Ambassador H.E. Titanilla Toth, reflected on the bazaar’s spirit of unity: “Today is not simply a market of cultures. It is a market of compassion. Culture becomes connection. Connection becomes compassion. Compassion becomes action.”
As the bazaar officially opened to the public at 9 a.m., visitors were treated to a display of global culture and local craftsmanship, a testament to the fellowship and generosity of the international community in the Philippines.
A community united—shopping while supporting a meaningful charitable cause
True to its mission, the bazaar’s proceeds will support IBF and Spouses of the Heads of Mission projects, including aid for marginalized communities and scholarships for indigent students. A video presentation highlighted the beneficiaries of the 2024 bazaar, underscoring the event’s impact.
The day concluded with cultural performances and closing remarks from IBF President Consul Betty Ang, who thanked partners, exhibitors and guests for their continued support.
Tour of the booths by GOH, SFA, IBF president, and SHOM representative
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