Daily TribuneThe venue was beautifully transformed with the colors of the French flag, creating a festive atmosphere that welcomed everyone.
MICHAEL Lhuillier, president of Alliance Francaise, with French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel.
PHOTOGRAPHS BY HONEY JARQUE LOOP FOR DAILY TRIBUNE
MICHAEL Lhuillier with Nicolas Facino, Honey Loop, Iryna Vikyrchak and Vivina Chiu.
FRENCH pianist Maxime Zecchini with Vivina Chiu, president of the Arts Council of Cebu.
HONORARY Consul of France, Michael Lhuillier and his wife Joanna.
PETITE Garcia and Kinue Sakurai.
MARGET Villarica, Mayen Tan and Tess Albulario.
ROMAINE Delliaux and Tannavee Korgaokar.
PHILIPPE and Danielle Bodart
KATE Anzani and Francis Dravigney.
The Alliance Francaise de Cebu, led by its executive director Nicolas Facino, in partnership with the Arts Council of Cebu headed by Dr. Vivina Chiu, presented Fete de la Musique: French Notes and Cebuano Voices.
The special cultural event offered guests a rare opportunity to experience the elegance and charm of French music through an enchanting piano concert by acclaimed French pianist Maxime Zecchini. His remarkable performance captivated the audience, showcasing not only his exceptional artistry but also the richness of France’s musical heritage.
Also performing that evening were the Huni Habagat Choral, celebrated for its expressive interpretations and rich vocal harmonies; and the Cebu-based Sforzando Ensemble, which captivated the audience with a polished performance that highlighted both technical excellence and musical sensitivity.
It was a meaningful reminder that music, like friendship, transcends borders and continues to strengthen the enduring ties between France and the Philippines.
A few days later, the spirit of fellowship, patriotism and friendship continued as friends, families, dignitaries and members of the French community gathered at La Parisiene Sky in Cebu to celebrate Bastille Day, France’s national holiday that commemorates the historic storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789, a defining moment of the French Revolution that symbolizes liberty, equality and fraternity.
The venue was beautifully transformed with the colors of the French flag, creating a festive atmosphere that welcomed everyone. Guests enjoyed an evening filled with French culture, delightful conversations and warm hospitality. Authentic French cuisine, freshly baked pastries, fine cheese and carefully selected wines delighted the palate, while lively music added to the joyful mood.
French Honorary Consul Michael Lhuillier welcomed the guests and expressed his appreciation for the enduring friendship between France and the Philippines. He highlighted the strong partnership that has developed in the maritime industry, where the two countries continue to work closely through training and employment opportunities for Filipino seafarers.
His remarks underscored the importance of continued collaboration, mutual trust and people-to-people exchanges, reaffirming the shared commitment of both nations to strengthen ties and build an even more meaningful partnership in the years ahead.
Guest of Honor, Her Excellency French Ambassador to the Philippines, Marie Fontanel, in her brief remarks, highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural ties and expanding cooperation in areas such as education, innovation and the arts.
The celebration concluded with a spectacular fireworks display that once again illuminated the night sky in the symbolic colors of the French nation.
