ASEAN leaders and culinary advocates gathered this morning for a symbolic tree-planting event. The program took place at the Likhang Filipino Exhibition Halls on Roxas Boulevard.
The gathering marked part of the 2026 Dia del Galeón Celebration. The event theme was “Sailing Together: Honoring the Galleon Legacy through Stronger ASEAN Friendship.”
The morning program began at 8:00 a.m. Culinary historian Mrs. Felice Prudente Sta. Maria led the arrival and reception of ambassadors.
Father Bosco Thang En Pau from Myanmar led the invocation. Ms. Dianne Agnes Cristobal delivered the opening message. She serves as the president of the Philippine Association of Condiments Producers, Inc. (PACPI).
A highlight of the morning was the symbolic planting of coconuts for ASEAN solidarity. Several key diplomats and officials joined this activity.
The participants included His Excellency Sin Saream, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia. His Excellency Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, Ambassador of Malaysia, also joined. His Excellency Dr. Lai Thai Binh, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, participated as well. Mr. Miguel Luis C. Rivera rounded out the group. He serves as the ASEAN Principal Assistant at the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Guests and volunteers followed the symbolic planting with a broader tree planting activity. This effort supports the new Living Museum of Tropical Flavors.
Ms. Romleah Pulido Ocampo delivered the closing remarks. She is the executive director of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, also called CITEM.
Mama Sita’s and Monde Nissin hosted a light reception after the program. The event concluded at 10:00 a.m.
The morning celebrated shared heritage and regional ties. Organizers hope the new trees will grow as a lasting symbol of friendship among ASEAN nations.