Friends are always a cause for celebration. This time, we celebrate our friends from Malaysia and Thailand! I was honored to join the special days for these two mighty nations.
Malaysia's 66th Merdeka (Independence) Day was a grand time of camaraderie and culture. We gathered at Makati Shangri-La and got a taste of Malaysia's iconic dishes and performances by the Melaka Heritage Institute Malaysia. Speeches from Malaysian Ambassador Dato' Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino and Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Administration Antonio Morales cemented the strong ties between our two countries.
And what better way to seal the deal than with a cake?
Well, there are many ways, but this cake did play a symbolic role in the event. Distinguished guests from Malaysia and the Philippines — including Sen. Robinhood Padilla and Sen. Koko Pimentel — all had a hand in the honorary cake cutting, literally! It was so fun seeing dignitaries have a little fun. It was such a warm and welcoming gathering among friends and comrades across cultures.
Meanwhile, in Dusit Thani Manila, the celebration was a triple whammy for the Kingdom of Thailand. We honored their auspicious occasions, namely, their National Day, the birth anniversary of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Thailand Father's Day. It was marked by a beautiful speech by Tull Traisorat, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of the Philippines. Here, he highlighted our nations' plans, including the establishment of the Philippines-Thailand Parliamentary Friendship Association, which serves as a testament to our continued friendship and greater cooperation.
He ended his remarks with an invitation to "Sharing with each other, Embracing new opportunities and Flourishing Together" and to toast both countries' great leaders. From there, we mingled and enjoyed their rich culture especially the renowned Thai cuisine, all beautifully presented for everyone to explore.
Yes, both different cultures but both great in their uniqueness and friendship.
Terima kasih, Malaysia! Khàawp khun khâ, Thailand! And to all my other friends — cheers!