PH Embassy open house draws thousands of visitors

The Migrant Heritage Commission performs before a full-house during the Philippine Embassy Open House on May 5. CONTRIBUTED

WASHINGTON, D.C. – More than 7,000 residents and visitors to the US capital experienced unique Filipino hospitality at the Philippine Embassy Open House on May 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Culture, tourism, and cuisine were the main themes of the Embassy’s participation in this year’s much-anticipated.

In cooperation with Filipino restaurants and various Filipino and Filipino American organizations of Metropolitan DC area, the Embassy prepared activities, performances, and delicious cuisine for the guests to enjoy.

Guests line up for a taste of authentic Filipino food served by two Filipino owned restaurants, Lumpia, Pansit, Atbp. and Bistro 1521. CONTRIBUTED

Showcasing the unique Filipino cultural heritage and artistic talents were the colorful musical and dance performances of the Philippine Cultural Society of George Washington University, Tanghalang Pilipino Angklung Ensemble, Migrant Heritage Commission Dance Ensemble, BIMAK (Benguet, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Apayao, Abra, and Kalinga Group), Fil-Am Stafford of Virginia, Ultimate Escrima of Maryland, MabuhayInc., and Bayanihan Cultural Dance Group of Maryland.

Pre-colonial history, alphabet, and symbols of the Philippines were also featured in the Baybayin and Pintados station, where guests had their names translated into the Philippines’ ancient script and had Kalinga tribe symbols painted on their bodies by the in-house artists of the Embassy.

Aspecial kiddie corner enabled children to craft, create, and color while learning about the country’s rich history and culture.

Visitors had the chance to sit down and learn more about the country’s top tourism destinations and business opportunities at the tourism booth, while two Filipino-owned restaurants served delicious Filipino food throughout the day.

Kids having fun at the kiddie corner. CONTRIBUTED

One lucky guest at the Instagram-selfie contest won an economy class round trip ticket to the Philippines courtesy of Philippine Airlines.

“Staging today’s festivities is a collective effort by Philippine Government agencies, Filipino businesses, and cultural groups,” said Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel G. Romualdez.

The Philippine Embassy Open House 2018 was made possible through the assistance and support of the Philippine Department of Tourism, Philippine Airlines, US-Philippines Society, Bistro 1521, and Lumpia, Pansit, Atbp.