BANGKOK – The Philippine Embassy in Bangkok successfully commemorated the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence and Nationhood through a Cultural Showcase and Choral Concert held at the Siam Patumwan House on 12 June 2026.
In her remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Thailand, H.E. Millicent Cruz Paredes, paid tribute to the Filipino heroes whose sacrifices earned the nation’s freedom, while emphasizing the continuing relevance of the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History) in shaping the Philippines’ future.
She reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to regional solidarity through its ASEAN Chairship and highlighted the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties and cooperation among ASEAN Member States.
H.E. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, graced the celebration as the Guest of Honor, underscoring the enduring friendship between the Philippines and Thailand as the two countries mark 77 years of diplomatic relations this year.
Prime Minister Anutin also shared personal anecdotes about cherished musical experiences with a Filipino band he befriended, affectionately referring to its members as his Filipino uncles.
Philippine Madrigal Singers
The Cultural Showcase celebrated Filipino artistic excellence through music and visual arts. The highlight of the event was the Song Weavers Philippines, an acclaimed choir based in Manila, celebrated for their versatility and emotive renditions of Filipino folk songs, classical masterpieces, and contemporary international works.
Under the direction of Mr. Alfred Allan Samonte, who also serves as the Executive Director of the Philippine Madrigal Singers, Song Weavers Philippines remains dedicated to advancing Filipino musical excellence and fostering cultural understanding among global audiences.
The Embassy also mounted an art exhibit featuring the works of Filipino visual artists Mr. Brando Bati, Mrs. Teresa Bati, and Ms. Candys Fulgado, as well as the works of the artist-members of ArtShow Philippines. The group’s founder, Mr. Frederick Epistola, curated the exhibit showcasing the richness, diversity, and vibrancy of contemporary Philippine art.
H.E. Ambassador Millicent Cruz Paredes (center) led the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the art exhibit together with Dr. Somsak Leeswadtrakul, Honorary Chairman of G Steel Group (2nd from right), and Ms. Pranapda Phornprapha, President of Siam Music Yamaha Co., Ltd. (2nd from left). Filipino artist Mr. Brando Bati (leftmost) and ArtShow Philippines representative Mr. Erick Epistola (rightmost) likewise joined the ribbon-cutting.
The Philippines and Thailand
Guests also sampled a variety of Filipino culinary delights and delicacies curated by Kalamansi Kafe, complemented by specialties from Khun Ching Filipino Restaurant, and desserts from Avocadoria. The culinary offerings provided a fitting showcase of the Philippines’ vibrant gastronomic heritage. Culinary offerings from Kalamansi Kafe, Avocadoria, and Khun Ching Filipino restaurant
Guests check out the art exhibit and corporate booths, and enjoy Filipino refreshments prior to the start of the choral concert.
Through music, art, and shared experiences, the celebration reaffirmed the lasting bonds of friendship between the Philippines and Thailand while honoring the values of freedom, progress, and unity that continue to inspire the Filipino people as they shape the nation’s future.
The Philippine Embassy conveys its appreciation to its event partners for the success of the celebration, with special recognition to Siam Patumwan House and the Phornprapha family for providing the venue.
The Embassy also acknowledges the support of the official airline partner, Philippine Airlines, Dee Money International Money Transfer, Thailand Choral Association, Thai Liwayway Food Industries, San Miguel Beer, Universal Robina Corporation, CP Foods, ThaiBev, and MedPark Hospital.
A flag-raising ceremony was held in the morning of 12 June 2026 at the Embassy grounds, followed by a simple Filipino breakfast courtesy of Lola’s Kitchen, to kick off this year’s Independence Day commemoration.
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