14 June 2023, Stockholm – The Philippine Embassy in Stockholm, under the leadership of Ambassador Maria Lumen B. Isleta, commemorated the 125th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence with a diplomatic reception held on 16 May 2023 at the Embassy Chancery.
In her welcome remarks, Ambassador Isleta highlighted the strong bilateral partnership between the Philippines and Sweden, including the recent conduct of the 5th bilateral Political Consultations, which allowed discussions on a wide range of topics spanning the political, economic and social dimensions of Philippines-Sweden relations.
She also expounded on the theme of this year’s Philippine Independence Day celebration - “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.”, which translates to “Freedom. Future. History." - and how these keywords are relevant to the values held dear by all Filipinos.
Savory dishes and desserts that showcased unique and delectable Philippine cuisine were served to the invited guests who enjoyed the fare. Some of the delicacies showcased include lechon liempo, pork barbecue, pancit, chicken inasal, ensaymada, ube cassava, and mango-creme cake formed part of the buffet - all of which were prepared by Chef Elle Philipps, owner of Filipino food bistro Kanto STHLM and catering company Elle’s Kusina.
The reception was made even more special by the performance of The Song Weavers Philippines, a group of musically talented and experienced choir singers trained by the Madrigal Singers. The group entertained the crowd with their renditions of “Pilipinas Kong Mahal”, “Paraiso”, “Och jungfrun hon går i ringen (a Swedish traditional song)”, “Comme D’Habitude”, “Take A Chance on Me (by Abba)”, “Da Coconut Nut”, among others.
The Song Weavers Philippines are now on their 1st European Goodwill Concert Tour. They are slated to represent the Philippines at the 45th Venezia in Coro on 11 June 2023 in Venice, Italy after having successfully served as Philippine representatives to the Arirang Multicultural Festival in South Korea on 23 October 2022.
Some 100 guests graced the occasion, including members of the diplomatic corps, Swedish Government officials, business executives, and Filipino Community leaders. END.
07 June 2023, Stockholm - Ambassador Maria Lumen B. Isleta led the Philippine Embassy’s participation in the celebration of Sweden’s National Day last 06 June 2023 held at the Skansen, an open air museum in Skansen with a program nationally broadcast live that began with His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf, Queen Silvia and other members of the royal family in attendance.
Two important anniversaries in the country’s history - including the coronation of King Gustav Vasa, who liberated Sweden from the Kalmar Union in 1523; the signing of the Constitution in 1809 as well as the jubilee year (50th Anniversary) of H.M. King Carl’s ascension to the throne was commemorated.
Swedish officials, members of the Riksdag led by Speaker Andreas Norlen, and members of the diplomatic corps came in full force to the celebration which featured performances by artists and singers from all parts of Sweden.
In his celebratory speech, H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf recalled the rich history of the country and Sweden’s nature, people, history, and traditions, from which he draws inspiration and strength. He underscored the importance of respecting history to allow people to understand the present and to be able to look to the future. The activity was followed by a reception hosted by the H.M. King and Queen Silvia at Nordiska Museet.
Earlier, members of the royal family started the day by visiting Strängnäs, where King Gustav Vasa was elected in 1523. The public was also welcomed by the Royal Family at the Royal Castle. Crown Princess Victoria, together with Prince Daniel, Princess Estelle, and Prince Oscar, joined the crowd at the ceremonial opening of the Castle’s western gate. END.
07 June 2023, Stockholm - Philippine Ambassador Maria Lumen B. Isleta led the Philippine Embassy’s participation at the International Fundraising Bazaar for Earthquake Relief in Türkiye and Syria held on 27 May 2023 at the Garden of the Egyptian Ambassador’s Residence.
The event, organized by The Ambassadors’ Spouses Association in Stockholm, was attended by various Embassies, several of which had put up their stalls to sell food items and native products. Additionally, performances from several Embassies also formed part of the program.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Embassy donated a bottle each of Don Papa Rum and Archipelago Botanical Gin and Vodka as raffle prizes courtesy of Anora and Dica Vin & Sprit.
Featured as part of the event were the Swedish rescuers including Golden Retriever rescue dog “Killian” that were deployed to Turkey and Syria to help in efforts to locate and free trapped people and transport them out of the ruins. Many guests, including Embassy officials and staff, took the opportunity to pose with rescue dog Killian.
The proceeds raised by the Association will be donated, through Save The Children, to the survivors of the earthquake in Türkiye and Syria. END.
05 June 2023, Stockholm – H.E. Ambassador Maria Lumen B. Isleta, in partnership with the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA), hosted a piano concert entitled “Springtime Sonata: A Musical Journey with Dr. Raul Sunico, world-renowned Filipino pianist”, to commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on 30 May 2023 at the Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church) Helsinki, Finland.
Dr. Sunico, who was formerly President of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), wowed the crowd with timeless classical pieces of Chopin and Debussy as well as much-loved Filipino classics, Kumintang and Bato sa Buhangin.
In her welcome remarks, Ambassador Isleta acknowledged the Embassy’s partnership with the NCCA in organizing the concert. She stated that the event was a meaningful way to commemorate the Philippine National Day that also brings along both pride, honor, and prominence to the Philippine world-class artists in Europe.
Members of the diplomatic corps, Finnish government officials, business executives, and Filipino community leaders - attended the concert. A reception followed the 60-minute program which allowed guests to meet and greet Dr. Sunico, while also enjoying the night’s offerings of Filipino delicacies. END.
