MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines, with the combined efforts of its government and its people, is now fast becoming known as a nation on the verge of greater economic heights.
In what is hoped to be the first of many opportunities to showcase the beauty of the Philippines’ diverse culture and the growth of its industries, the Philippine-hosted 45th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank, not only became a venue for knowledge sharing among the 4,700 delegates and guests, it also became a way for the nation to feature its numerous wonders in a series of events such as the opening of the Philippine Corporate Investment Pavilion, an opening session with President Benigno “PNoy” Aquino Jr., and the Host Country Reception during the four-day gathering.
The event, also known as Manila 2012, featured an inspiring speech by PNoy, who expressed pride not just in the Philippines’ economic development, but also in its people.
“We have been blessed with an abundance of resources and with a strategic location as a gateway between Asia and the Pacific,” Aquino said. “But our greatest resource has always been our people who have constantly shone given the right environment. In any industry, in almost any corner of the Earth, you will see a Filipino working hard and earning praises from his/her employers. Our people have always been our greatest competitive advantage, and our efforts are focused on investing in them.”
Guests were given a taste of Filipino hospitality in the welcome cocktails held last May 2 with stellar performances by Gary Valenciano.
During the Host Country Reception, guests and delegates were treated to performances that underscored the wealth of tradition and diverse cultural influences. With the theme “This Golden Land,” the Philippines’ top creative talents collaborated to feature the local culture through seven distinct suites.
The Opening Suite highlighted the creation myths of the various indigenous cultures in an original ballet created by Max Luna III, with accompanying music by Kalayo percussionists.
It was followed by a performance by Kariala Tausug performed by the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group. The group captured the movement of the seas and the waves through the Pangalay, a signature dance of the Tausug Tribe in Sulu.
The ADB delegates were also treated to a musical number by Leo Valdez, Bituin Escalante and The Company.
The ethnic Filipino fashion was given a contemporary twist by top local designers. These artisans reinterpreted the traditional styles of sun-worshippers and gave it a more modern meaning.
Street dancing, a staple in Filipino fiesta, was also featured in the event. Tribu Pan-ay Dinagyang Group from Iloilo created a show-stopping performance. Max Luna took center stage with a number that underscored the resilient Filipino spirit.
To culminate the event, all of the performers came together and sang the ADB Governor’s Meeting theme song, Our Time Is Now, composed by Jim Paredes.
“I’ve been inspired hearing the good news that is happening in the country. I hope it will have a life beyond the event. If it helps the Philippines move forward economically because it inspired the attendees in the conference, I will consider the song to have lived beyond the event itself,” explained Paredes.
Given the success of Manila 2012, the growing confidence in the country’s potential, and the newfound appreciation for everything the Philippines has to offer, one can expect the continued progress of this great nation for many years to come.