15 August 2024, CANBERRA - Philippine Ambassador H.E. Ma. Hellen De La Vega joined Members of Parliament and the Diplomatic Corps in the celebration of the International Day of Friendship 2024 at Parliament House on 12 August 2024. The event was organized by the Office of the Government Whip in the House of Representatives Mr. David Smith MP and the Embassy of Paraguay.

In her capacity as the Acting Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador De La Vega delivered remarks underscoring the importance of optimism and hope as well as working as direct agents to further foster the culture of peace in a world facing a risk of surge in conflicts.

The Hon. Milton Dick MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives, delivered the keynote address and expressed his deep appreciation for diplomatic corps’ efforts in not only caring for their own citizens but for Australia as well and in promoting harmonious relations between Australia and their respective countries.

Director Damian Cardona of the United Nations Information Centre shared the message of the UN Secretary General at the event which emphasized on promoting and defending the shared spirit of solidarity through friendship and camaraderie.

During the International Cuisine Exchange, the Philippine Embassy featured the ube ensaymada by Lolo and Lola, a multi-awarded Filipino restaurant in the ACT. The ube Ensaymada is a delicious variation of ensaymada, a Filipino type of velvety brioche, made with ube extract and ube jam, topped with loads of grated cheese for a sweet and savory combination.

The International Day of Friendship has been celebrated yearly since 2011 in line with UN General Assembly Resolution A/65/L.72. – END