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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies at Work devider Italy showcases Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics in Manila

Italy showcases Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics in Manila

Published Feb 16, 2026 03:56 pm
The colors of Italy proudly illuminate the façade of the Italian residence, flanked by Alfa Romeo cars, embodying style and strength
The colors of Italy proudly illuminate the façade of the Italian residence, flanked by Alfa Romeo cars, embodying style and strength
The Italian Residence in Makati City became a hub of culture and sport on Feb. 6, 2026, as Ambassador Davide Giglio and his wife, Dr. Anna Lisa Ghini, hosted a special reception marking the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics and the Winter Paralympics. Guests were welcomed by a striking start-to-finish carpet at the entrance, a medal podium and a billiard table in the reception area, while two Alfa Romeo cars on display underscored Italian craftsmanship and elegance.
The event was not only a celebration of Italy’s proud Olympic tradition but also a reflection on the broader role of sports in society. Ambassador Giglio underscored the cultural, social, and economic impact of athletics, reminding attendees that sports transcend competition. “Sports are not only a celebration of competition, but a tool for social change, inclusivity, and mobility. At every level, they shape our societies and improve our lives,” the ambassador emphasized.
Ambassador Davide Giglio set the tone for the celebration with his vibrant welcome message, filling the occasion with energy and warmth
Ambassador Davide Giglio set the tone for the celebration with his vibrant welcome message, filling the occasion with energy and warmth
French Ambassador Marie Aude Françoise Lassalle ep. Fontanel and her spouse Alain Fontanel stand tall, proudly donning jerseys emblazoned with the Gallic rooster—a bold emblem of French resilience and sporting spirit
French Ambassador Marie Aude Françoise Lassalle ep. Fontanel and her spouse Alain Fontanel stand tall, proudly donning jerseys emblazoned with the Gallic rooster—a bold emblem of French resilience and sporting spirit
Ambassador Davide Giglio and his wife, Dr. Anna Lisa Ghini with Cynthia Carrion Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) president
Ambassador Davide Giglio and his wife, Dr. Anna Lisa Ghini with Cynthia Carrion Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) president
Here’s what greets you right at the entrance—setting the mood instantly
Here’s what greets you right at the entrance—setting the mood instantly
In his remarks, Ambassador Giglio highlighted how sports serve as engines of growth and unity. Across alpine nations such as Italy, Canada, and Norway, winter sports have long been a source of national pride. He noted that the sports sector contributes approximately 1.5 percent of Europe’s GDP, generating €32 billion in net income and employing millions worldwide. With 1.8 billion players engaged in federated competitions, the scale of participation rivals even football, the world’s most popular sport.
Italy’s history with the Winter Olympics is storied. Cortina d’Ampezzo first hosted the Games in 1956, followed by Turin in 2006. Now, in 2026, Italy will welcome the world once again—this time through a unique dual-city arrangement. Milan, known for its dynamism in fashion and commerce, will stage skating and hockey events, while Cortina, famed for its alpine slopes, will host skiing competitions. This partnership highlights Italy’s versatility, blending urban energy with mountain tradition.
Beyond medals and podiums, the ambassador stressed that sports are about community, tradition, and opportunity. Local federations and sponsors—from skiing and snowboarding to football and rugby—play a vital role in sustaining these traditions. Even futsal, where Italy’s women’s team reached the quarter-finals, reflects the breadth of Italian sporting excellence.
The Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics will not only showcase athletic achievement but also Italy’s cultural diversity and innovation. From alpine slopes to urban arenas, the games promise to unite nations, inspire individuals, and fuel economies. As Ambassador Giglio’s message made clear, sports remain a cornerstone of human achievement and connection.
Czech Embassy’s Deputy Head of Mission Eva Tenzin with her lovely daughter Mariana Dolma Tenzin
Czech Embassy’s Deputy Head of Mission Eva Tenzin with her lovely daughter Mariana Dolma Tenzin
Norway’s Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster and his spouse, Mme. Cathrine Lykke Riseng Lyster, radiate triumph and energy as they step onto the medal podium, their pride shining in Norway’s red, white, and blue—an inspiring moment of national victory and celebration
Norway’s Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster and his spouse, Mme. Cathrine Lykke Riseng Lyster, radiate triumph and energy as they step onto the medal podium, their pride shining in Norway’s red, white, and blue—an inspiring moment of national victory and celebration
Japan Embassy First Secretary Shigehiro Matsuda with Manila Bulletin’s Fil Sionil
Japan Embassy First Secretary Shigehiro Matsuda with Manila Bulletin’s Fil Sionil
Ambassador Ioannis Pediotis of Greece embassy and Austrian Embassy Head of Mission Margit Loidolt
Ambassador Ioannis Pediotis of Greece embassy and Austrian Embassy Head of Mission Margit Loidolt
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