Belgium marks 80 years of relations with PH
Published Jun 13, 2026 02:31 pm
The illumination of the iconic Globe at the Mall of Asia marked the official launch of Belgian Days 2026, with the Smurfs joined by (from left) Belgian Consul Fabio Pompetti, Hans Sy of SM Prime Holdings, Ambassador Vladislava Iordanova, EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro, and DFA Deputy Assistant Secretary Susanna Mendiola. (Photos: Manila Bulletin/Badette Cunanan)
Belgian Days Manila 2026 turned Metro Manila into a showcase of Belgian culture, business, and innovation as Belgium and the Philippines marked 80 years of diplomatic relations.
Organized by the Embassy of Belgium in the Philippines under Ambassador Vladislava Iordanova, the multi-day celebration brought together cultural institutions, businesses, and communities through a series of activities highlighting the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
The festivities opened with the illumination of the iconic Globe at the Mall of Asia, where Ambassador Iordanova joined government officials, business leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps for the official launch.
Ambassador Vladislava Iordanova (right) joined the Smurfs at the culminating event of Belgian Days
2026, “Experience Belgium: Discover. Taste. Play,” held at the SM North EDSA Annex Atrium, together with (from left) Jonjon San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls, and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte
Describing the initiative as a celebration of both history and future cooperation, Iordanova said Belgian Days Manila serves as “a living bridge between our peoples, honoring eight decades of friendship while opening new pathways for cooperation and shared growth.”
Throughout the week, Filipinos were introduced to different facets of Belgian culture. Families enjoyed appearances by the Smurfs, one of Belgium’s most recognizable cultural exports, while food enthusiasts sampled Belgian culinary specialties through a series of gastronomic activities and demonstrations.
The celebration also highlighted the strong economic relationship between the two countries. A business mission organized by Belgian trade representatives explored opportunities for further cooperation and investment, culminating in a gala gathering of business leaders and industry stakeholders.
Culture remained at the heart of the programme. A Belgian-themed gathering in Poblacion introduced guests to Belgian food and beverages, while Alliance Française de Manille hosted a screening of the Belgian film “Jeunes Mères”, offering audiences a glimpse into contemporary Belgian cinema.
The festivities concluded at SM North EDSA with “Experience Belgium,” a family-oriented event featuring exhibits on sustainability, education, and cultural heritage alongside Belgian waffles, chocolates, and other well-loved treats.
The ceremonial turnover of Belgian books to the SM Book Nook underscores Belgium’s commitment to education and literacy. In photo: Architect Shereen T. Sy, Pioneer of Book Nook; Ambassador Vladislava Iordanova; and the Smurfs
A ceremonial turnover of Belgian books likewise underscored Belgium’s support for literacy, education, and cultural exchange.
Carrying the theme “Building Bridges Together,” Belgian Days Manila reflected a relationship that has expanded steadily over the past eight decades through trade, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.
As both countries celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations, the week-long programme served as a reminder that international partnerships are often strengthened not only through official engagements, but also through the everyday exchanges that bring cultures closer together.