MANILA, Philippines - The Singapore Embassy in Manila hosted a reception to celebrate Singapore’s 48th National Day at the Raffles & Fairmont Ballroom in Makati in August. Guests of the event included Philippine government officials, the diplomatic corps, businessmen and the Singaporean community in the Philippines. The celebrations showcased an impressive performance by the Singapore School Manila (SSM) choir and delightful Singaporean food laid out in colourful and standout food carts, emulating Singapore’s street food carts. In their messages, the Philippines Secretary of Foreign Affairs, the Honorable Albert Del Rosario and Singapore’s Ambassador to the Philippines Hirubalan V. P. spoke about the excellent bilateral relations and the long-standing friendship between both countries. Secretary Rosario also complimented Singapore on its progress while Ambassador Hirubalan praised the impressive achievements of the Philippines under the leadership of His Excellency President Benigno S Aquino III.