PH Embassy in Ankara, PH Consulate General in Istanbul Join Filipino Community PH Food and Cultural Festival, Gala Night in Türkiye 

Chargé d'Affaires, a. i. Juan E. Dayang (left photo) and Consul General Shirlene C. Mananquil receive plaques of recognition from the Kalayaan Türkıye 2023 Organizers at the Gala night (Istanbul PCG photo).

Istanbul, 20 June 2023 - The Philippine Embassy in Ankara and the Philippine Consulate General in Istanbul joined the Filipino community in a whole day of PH Food and Cultural Festival and Gala Night on 18 June 2023 at Sheraton Istanbul Levent, in commemoration of the 125th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood.

The morning event attracted approximately 130 participants, who enjoyed a vibrant display of Philippine traditions, music, cultural dances, arts, and cuisine. Seven Filipino community groups from Istanbul and Ankara actively contributed to the festivities, enriching the experience for all. Philippine Consul General Shirlene C. Mananquil gave the welcome remarks, highlighting the importance of keeping unity among all the Filipinos in Istanbul and the whole of Türkiye.

In the evening, the Gala Night welcomed over 240 guests, with the esteemed Chargé d'Affaires, a. I. Juan E. Dayang, delivering an inspiring speech as Guest Speaker, emphasizing the importance of unity, resilience, and the enduring Filipino spirit in the face of challenges. 

“Filipinos in Türkiye are crucial for deepening our bilateral relations on a deeper and personal level. Bilang bagong bayani, you do not only work for your loved ones back home but also for each other here and for our Turkish brothers and sisters,” CDA Dayang said.

The gala event included a Mutya ng Kalayaan pageant with 12 candidates who showed off not only their talents and wit but the rich and vibrant festivals in the Philippines such as Sinulog, Panagbenga, Flores de Mayo, Santa Cruzan, among others through their creative costumes.

The Philippine Food and Cultural Festival and Gala Night dubbed as Kalayaan 2023 in Türkiye served as remarkable celebrations of the country’s independence, and a testament to the community's dedication to preserving their heritage. END

Consul General Shirlene C. Mananquil gives a welcome address highlighting the importance of keeping unity among all the Filipinos in Istanbul and the whole of Türiye (Istanbul PCG Photo).

 Philippine Consulate General in Istanbul’s booth at the morning festival on 18 June 2023. (Istanbul PCG photo).

Philippine Consulate General personnel led by Consul General Shirlene C. Mananquil pose with the organizers during the Philippine Food Festival and Cultural Presentation (Istanbul PCG Photo).

Contestants sing classic to modern Filipino songs during the Philippine Food and Cultural Festival (Istanbul PCG photo).

Mutya ng Kalayaan judges composed of Chargé d'Affaires, a. i. Juan E. Dayang (3rd from right), Consul General Shirlene C. Mananquil  (2nd from left), Consul Rachel Anne L. Prince (2nd from right), and Vice Consul Maika Ros B. Fontelera (left); together with the organizers and the winner of the Mutya ng Kawit 2023 (Istanbul PCG photo).

Mutya ng Kalayaan judges composed of Chargé d'Affaires, a. i. Juan E. Dayang (5th from right), Consul General Shirlene C. Mananquil  (3rd from left), Consul Rachel Anne L. Prince (4th from right), and Vice Consul Maika Ros B. Fontelera (2nd from left); together with the organizers and the winner of the Mutya ng Kalayaan 2023, Ms. Jenny Ozdil. (Istanbul PCG photo)

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