Reception spotlights growing PH-SG ties, Filipino cuisine, and cultural pride at Orchard Hotel Singapore.

SINGAPORE, 12 June 2025 — The Philippine Embassy in Singapore hosted a diplomatic reception on 11 June 2025 at Orchard Hotel to commemorate the 127th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood. The event, attended by more than 350 guests, from the diplomatic corps, Singapore government, business and academic sectors, and the Embassy’s institutional partners.

In his welcome address, Philippine Ambassador Medardo G. Macaraig reaffirmed the strengthening relationship between the Philippines and Singapore, citing recent high-level exchanges, including Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s visit to Manila in June 2025 and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s state visit to the Philippines in August 2024.

Ambassador Macaraig also spotlighted new areas of bilateral cooperation such as carbon credits, biodiversity conservation, and digital innovation. He paid tribute to the 220,000-strong Filipino community in Singapore for their vital contributions across diverse sectors.

Minister Chee, in his remarks, congratulated the Philippines and expressed confidence in the continued growth of ties, rooted in mutual trust, regional priorities, and vibrant people-to-people links.

The event featured an all-Filipino menu curated by Orchard Hotel Singapore, complemented by popular local favourites including Don Lechon, Lechon Republic, Nanay’s Kitchen (with halal offerings), and Second Serving—partners of the Embassy’s Food Trek campaign.

Cultural performances added a festive touch to the evening. The Embassy’s resident band, joined by Ambassador Macaraig in a musical tribute to Singapore’s SG60 celebrations, performed Coldplay’s “Man on the Moon.” The program continued with a playful rendition of Ryan Cayabyab’s “Coconut Song,” followed by a live set from all-Filipino band Mhix Flava, known for their regular performances at Clarke Quay.

This year’s celebration forms part of the Embassy’s broader “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.” (Freedom. Future. History.) Campaign, a multi-year series highlighting the Philippines’ journey to independence and continued aspirations for progress and sovereignty.

Source: The Embassy of The Philippines