IF only ginkgo trees could grow out of carpets, then the grand ballroom would’ve already looked like a festival straight out of Nami Island in South Korea. Instead, Cebu City had the next best thing sans the need to fly out of the country—an evening function celebrating, and honoring, all things Korean in Cebu. Last Oct. 2 at the grand ballroom of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, the Consulate of the Republic of Korea in Cebu hosted the Korean National Day in Cebu.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to everyone for your active and consistent support to the Consulate. Next year, our two countries will celebrate the 70th founding anniversary of our diplomatic relations as blood tied allies since the Korean War in the 1950s. We continue to foster and support the various mutual exchanges in the fields of infrastructure, agriculture, finance, defense industry, education and culture,” said Consul General Oh Sung Yong during his message. Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III and Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale led the Cebu delegation joining in the celebration.
“Significantly, in the tourism sector wherein Korea’s contribution in Central Visayas is incomparable above all other nations,” said Consul General Oh, “1.6 million Koreans visited the Philippines and 900,000 Koreans visited Central Visayas,” he said stating last year’s records.
Upon entering the venue, guests were greeted with welcome drinks and several booths exhibiting Korean artworks both visual and handcrafted. There was also a photo booth where one could feel like a king or queen of the Joseon Dynasty by wearing the Korean traditional dress “Hanbok” and have a picture taken.
After the national anthems of both The Philippines and the Republic of Korea played, and the welcome remarks were given by Consul General Oh and Gov. Davide, a visual presentation followed showcasing the Four Season Colors of Korea. A toast then followed, given by Regional Director, Police Regional Office 7, PCSUPT Debold Sinas and president of the Cebu Korean Association Cho Bong Hwan.
A feast followed and guests were offered a spread of delicious Korean and Filipino delicacies ranging from Kimchi to Lechon. Drinks were overflowing as well, from fruit juices and wines to Korean spirits and liquor.
Artful, musical performances capped the night: Samulnori (Korean Traditional performance done by the Manila Samulnori Team), Arirang (done by professor Sharon Quintero-Manalo) and Nanta (a Korean Percussion performance done by Ta:Pos).
The night ended better than it started, with Cebu’s leaders, movers and shakers having a refreshed appreciation, love and understanding for all things Korean.