Cover Greek Ambassador to the Philippines Ioannis Pediotis
Greek Ambassador to the Philippines Ioannis Pediotis
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The celebration of the Greek National Day boasts warm ties between the two nations
Manila played host to a landmark event last March 21st—the first-ever celebration of Greece’s National Day in the Philippines.
The soirée, orchestrated by the Embassy of Greece, Greek Ambassador to the Philippines Ioannis Pediotis, and his wife Aliki Pappas, became more than just a diplomatic gathering; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of culture, commerce, and camaraderie. His Excellency (HE) Ioannis Pediotis shares, “The celebration, inter alia, served to bring closer the Filipino society, as a whole, with Greece. As this was the first-ever celebration of the National Day of Greece in the Philippines, it was, in a sense, a historic event.”
Above Greek dancers performing traditional dances at the National Day of Greece celebration
Greek dancers performing traditional dances at the National Day of Greece celebration
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Guests were welcomed with the tradition of the “evil eye” bracelet, a symbol of protection, and a refreshing shot of ouzo, the iconic anise-flavoured spirit. Throughout the reception, guests were transported to the heart of the Aegean. Traditional dancers mesmerised guests, while the sounds of the bouzouki, played by a specially flown-in artist, kept toes tapping.
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Above Department of Foreign Affairs Under Secretary Eduardo de Vega joins in on the festivities
Department of Foreign Affairs Under Secretary Eduardo de Vega joins in on the festivities
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While the Greek community in the Philippines may be small, its impact is undeniable. It is a powerhouse in the maritime industry, with Greek shipping magnates employing a staggering 30,000 Filipino crew members—a testament to the Filipinos’ reputation for hard work and dedication. This relationship was acknowledged with a plaque presented to the Philippines' Secretary of Transportation, a gesture of appreciation for the Filipino seafarers who contributed significantly to the success of the Greek Merchant Marine.
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Above Secretary of the Department of Transportation of the Philippines, Jaime J Bautista, receives a plaque of appreciation from Greek Ambassador to the Philippines, Ioannis Pediotis
Secretary of the Department of Transportation of the Philippines, Jaime J Bautista, receives a plaque of appreciation from Greek Ambassador to the Philippines, Ioannis Pediotis
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The evening transcended mere business exchanges. The guest list boasted a dazzling array of Filipino dignitaries, from prominent politicians to honorary consuls and distinguished business leaders. Their presence underscored the warmth between the two nations, a sentiment further echoed when the Greek dance group seamlessly blended with Filipino naval cadets in a captivating performance of Zorba the Greek. This cultural fusion continued as the renowned 10-member Jewelmer Jazz Band collaborated with Greece’s most celebrated bouzouki artist, filling the air with soulful melodies.
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The meticulously planned feast showcased Greece’s culinary prowess. Ingredients flown directly from the homeland ensured authenticity in every bite. Guests revelled in classics like moussaka, pastitsio, and souvlaki, savouring the essence of the Mediterranean.
Above Horiatiki (Greek Salad), a Greek cuisine staple
Above Tiropita, a Greek pastry filled with a creamy and savoury mixture of cheese.
Horiatiki (Greek Salad), a Greek cuisine staple
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This celebration serves as a springboard for a future brimming with cultural exchange and collaborative endeavours. Built on a foundation of mutual respect, thriving maritime ties, and a shared love for delectable cuisine, vibrant music, and lively dance, the potential for Filipino-Greek relations stretches far and wide. “We believe that the celebration of the Greek National Day in the Philippines, which was long overdue, will contribute to the further strengthening of the warm ties between our two islandic people”, says Ambassador Pediotis.
Credits
Images: Courtesy of the Embassy of Greece in Manila
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Daniella is the social media editor at Tatler Philippines, with a bachelor's degree in Journalism from the University of the Philippines Diliman. Having been a competitive swimmer for 15 years, she is passionate about sharing the inspiring stories of athletes, especially those of women athletes. Outside of work, Daniella finds fulfillment and balance through her love for sports, now adding tennis, golf, and running to the roster.
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