Last October 2018, the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh held its Diplomatic Reception at the Cultural Palace, Diplomatic Quarter, in celebration of the 120th Declaration of Philippine Independence and the 49th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the Republic of the Philippines and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This was the first reception under the leadership of Ambassador Adnan V. Alonto, and our first reception here since we arrived in 2017. The guests included members of the Diplomatic corps, Saudi royalty and businessmen, Filipino community leaders, and all Embassy personnel and their spouses. Being a photobook enthusiast, I couldn't pass up the chance to create a memorabilia of this occasion. My husband was equally supportive of the idea and agreed to donate a copy of the photobook to the Embassy. Talk about a supportive (stage) husband. I must say it was great seeing everyone dressed up in their Filipiniana's finest. Even our friends from other embassies complimented our nice gowns.
After the formal program, high school students of the International Philippine School in Riyadh rendered a singkil dance - to the guests' delight and amazement. Finally, for dinner, everyone enjoyed sumptuous traditional Filipino and Maranao food, catered by Holiday Inn - Meydan, and Ms. Norhanie Dimakuta, respectively. In keeping with the festive atmosphere of the occasion, the Ambassador's Choir continued to entertain the guests during dinner with their lively Filipino songs and some kundiman. As a bonus, the guests also got to enjoy traditional sorbetes! So Pinoy! Having attended a number of receptions since our arrival here, I must say that our reception was one to be remembered. It's the little touches like the dance, the sorbetes ice cream, the lively singing, so characteristic of our own fiestas, that make us very unique and very Pinoy.
A big congratulations to everyone for pulling off this successful event, Embassy personnel and sponsors alike, but most especially to Ambassador and Madam Alonto. Looking forward to and so excited for the diplomatic reception this year when the Embassy shall be celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations between our country and the Kingdom. Photos by Ms. Heidee Urbano and Mr. Normal Casil * * * Read: My other articles about our diplomatic life here in Riyadh: Gorgeous and Modern: Princess Nourah Universty Beyond Malls: Exploring Riyadh... with Kids! Welcome to the Kingdom The Start of our Diplomatic Journey Also, do check out our Saudi Arabia Gallery for more pictures from around Riyadh. Thanks!
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