A dazzling celebration of the enduring friendship between France and the Philippines, while honoring organizations and MSMEs championing sustainability and community advocacies—that is what Le French Gala 2024 was, hosted by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines (CCIFP) on 21 November 2024, at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila.

The evening began with a warm welcome from CCIFP President Jacques Christophe Branellec, who set the stage for a night of cultural appreciation and collaboration. The presence of prominent figures like the French Ambassador and two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo highlighted the evening’s significance. In a delightful moment, the French Ambassador charmed attendees by singing and dancing alongside Philippe Gauthier, adding a personal touch to the celebration.

Guests were immersed in a rich tapestry of French and Filipino artistry through performances by violinist Jay Cayuca, singer Elle Adda, and the Daloy Dance Group, who masterfully blended ballet and cariñosa. Culinary masterpieces prepared by Shangri-La’s top chefs further embodied the fusion of both cultures, offering a unique dining experience complemented by premium wines and spirits.

Honoring Advocacies: Le Trophée Bleu Awards

The highlight of the evening was the le Tropée Bleu business sustainability awards, now in its third year. These awards recognized exceptional contributions to sustainable development:
• Make Sense: Winner of the Sustainable Excellence for SMEs Category, for fostering impactful growth.
• Acted: Honored in the Peace Category, for promoting harmony and collaboration.
• CMA CGM: Recognized in the Partnership Category for building meaningful alliances.
• Sodexo: Awarded in the Planet Category, for initiatives supporting environmental sustainability.
• Essilor Luxottica: Winner in the People Category, for uplifting communities and advancing social responsibility.

A night that kept on giving
Adding to the excitement were raffle prizes, including two business-class tickets to France from Air France, a luxurious two-night stay at Le Bristol Paris with a Parisian shopping spree, and an overnight stay at Shangri-La The Fort.
The event’s success was made possible by its dedicated partners, including Event Partner Jewelmer, Platinum Sponsors BDO and ENGIE, and numerous other sponsors, media, and marketing collaborators.

Bridging cultures and strengthening ties

Le French Gala 2024 was more than a night of glamour—it was a celebration of shared values and a testament to the deep-rooted relationship between France and the Philippines. With culture, advocacy, and collaboration taking center stage, the event reinforced the importance of working together toward a sustainable and inclusive future.