Clinking glasses, gastronomic delights and an ample supply of some of the smoothest wines filled the ballroom of Fairmont Hotel during last Aug. 3’s celebration of the 725th Anniversary of the Republic of Switzerland.
For this year’s Swiss National Day – a commemoration of the day in 1291 when the Swiss Confederation as founded – guests were treated to one of the jewels of Swiss Military music – the Swiss Military Small Band, which came to Manila as part of its Asia Tour 2016. During the festive night, they also shared the stage with the Philippine Army Band.
The celebration of the auspicious event also featured a solo photographic exhibit of Philippine endemic birds, as captured by Lorenzo Barelli, Third Secretary at the Swiss Embassy in Manila.
Ambassador Andrea Reichlin hosted guests from the Philippine government, diplomatic and consular corps, as well other friends of the Swiss Embassy in Manila, with the intention of sharing Switzerland’s unique culture.
The Philippines and Switzerland have had good relations since 1957, one characterized by regular political dialogue, extensive trade and humanitarian operations. In 2012, the two countries celebrated the 150th anniversary of the establishment official bilateral relations.