NOTHING short of the best (that I can't move on from it).
With world leaders being present last weekend, the country has left no stone unturned in hosting the special gala to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
To the tune of a marching band, amid the bright lights, and under the gaze of the public eye, the Philippine President and his team hosted their biggest international gathering so far. And it did not disappoint.
The gala has truly showcased a special brand of Filipino hospitality and the best of Filipino artistry and talent through an evening of outstanding music, dance, design and culinary arts.
Here are four politics-free things that should be given a nod, not only by millennials---but everybody.
#FestiveScene
Five giant lanterns, representing 50 years of Asean, were so lit in a fiesta atmosphere as soon as guests arrived. Crafted especially by artisans from the country’s “parul capital”---the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, it reflected how much we can pay close attention to detail and quality in our distinct handicrafts.
#Filipinoflavors
Nothing can go wrong with a gathering as lavish as this. These are world leaders and they cannot afford to get sick because they are, arguably, the busiest people on earth, thus everything counts.
Consequently, after the President’s welcome speech and ceremonial toast, guests were treated to a four-course Filipino-Asian dinner curated and prepared by multi-awarded Chef Jessie Sincioco. Oh, I could just imagine the butterflies in her stomach but she definitely has the chill.
#PetmalungPerformance
Oh what could be better than a big band and two soloists serenading you through dinner? The kicker? An orchestra, a marching band, a rock band and soloists smashed the iconic song “Manila” for delegates. Insanely amazing, right? Yasss!
#PHfashion
The official 'Outfit of the day' (OOTD) was Filipiniana. Thus, guests were in bespoke and more than instagram-worthy Barong Tagalog and traditional terno or saya made by award-winning filipino designers.
#PRRDSpeech
Whether you're throwing shade or not, the President, his perpetual slouch clothed in a formal barong looked nothing like some people are worried about, as he bowed to the dictates of protocol.
He read his speech quite fast, garbling some words and even skipping few lines. But this is somehow expected given his preference for spontaneous speeches. Nonetheless, he definitely made up for it with the vigor of his voice, strategic pauses and emphasis.
We got few more hours before we wrap things up and heave a sigh of relief once all the pageantry and formalities are over, but I would like to KEEP IT 100 (insert ‘100’ emoji here) as early as today.
To all the ladies and gents behind these, Werpa!
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