Following the COVID-19 recession, the Consular Corps of the Philippines finally transitioned from a virtual set-up to physical meetings after two years of hiatus and restraints. In turn, they have also reopened their doors to the return of the most awaited and celebrated annual Consular Ball, the highlight of the consular and diplomatic calendar in the Philippines. The 47th Consular Ball, which seeks to promote acquaintanceship, fellowship, and camaraderie, was held last Dec. 17 at Conrad Hotel Manila, Pasay City.

The 47th Consular Ball, chaired by Consul a.h., Helen M. Ong and co-chaired by Consul a.h., Betty L. Ang is not only to promote friendships but is also for the purpose of providing charitable funds for the Corps’ social development projects and advocacies, such as its scholarship programs, partnership with different government agencies and institutions, etc. This has been a milestone and an annual tradition of the Consular Corps Organization.

The event, which is a night to remember, was highlighted by its fine selection of food and exquisite wines, fabulous raffle prizes from generous sponsors, entertainment from Marcy David Band and Replay Band, and the turnover of leadership of the outgoing Dean and Consul General ah., Sergio Ortiz-Luis, Jr. to the incoming Dean, Consul General Javier Martin Garcia.

The event was attended by diplomats, distinguished government officials, reputable businessmen, and noteworthy personalities from the country’s social set, such as H.E. Marykay Loss Carlson of the US Embassy, H.E. Kim Inchul of Korea, H.E. Raduta Dana Matache of Romania, H.E. Antonio De Souza e Silva of Brazil, H.E. Marielle Geraedts of Netherlands, H.E. Tull Traisorat of Thailand, H.E. Ricardo Luis Bocolandro of Argentina, H.E. Marcela Ordonez of Colombia, H.E. Christian Halaas Lyster of Norway, H.E. Agus Widjojo of Indonesia, H.E. Gerard Ho of Singapore, H.E. Ilan Fluss of Israel, H.E. Ionnis Pediotis of Greece, and H.E. Amb. Hoang Huy Chung of Vietnam.

See the attendees of the 47th Consular Ball captured by Lorna Llanes:

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IN PHOTOS: The 47th Consular Ball