The Philippine Italian Association celebrates its most significant milestone, the 55th year of cultural exchanges between the Philippines and Italy, on July 29.
Conceptualized and founded in Manila in 1962 by then Philippine Ambassador to the Vatican, Proceso E. Sebastian, and then Italian Ambassador to Manila, Eugenio Rubino, the Philippine Italian Association has passionately worked to foster mutual understanding and friendship between the Philippines and Italy, in culture, art, music and language.
One of the outstanding PIA presidents among distinguished past presidents, from 1978 to 1986, is Ambassador Bienvenido Tantoco, former Philippine ambassador to Rome. His daughter, Nedy Tantoco, is the current PIA president.
PIA’s story began with Italian language courses provided children of Italian residents of Manila. It has become one of the most important institutions to represent the partnership between the two countries.
Culture projects have touched aspects of music, art, language and culture in the last five and a half decades.
PIA has also helped bring Filipino language, culture and heritage to Italy, benefiting not only the Italians but also Filipinos who have made Italy their home.
To mark this occasion, PIA will hold a dinner-dance on Saturday, July 29, 6:30 pm, at The Peninsula Manila Ballroom.
The occasion is also a warm send-off for Italian Ambassador Massimo Roscigno whose tour of duty ends in August. His many achievements will be recognized.
This will be followed by a piano homage by Dr. Raul Sunico.
A special silent auction of exquisite art pieces from Rustan’s Art gallery department will be on display, with sculptures by Murano glass master Andrea Tagliapietra from iPhor Trading Inc., paintings by Ramon Diaz (Galleria Duemila), Al Perez, Paulina Luz Sotto, and sculpture by Benjamin Dailo.
Among the prizes of a raffle to be held are first prize, a round trip ticket to Italy from Etihad with VIP shopping package at Fidenza Village; an iPhone 7 from Globe Telecom; an executive check-up at St. Luke’s; a three-day, two-night stay for two at Astoria, Palawan; gift certificates from ResToeRun, Puccini, Cibo, Lusso, Asta, Dario, L’Opera, Prego, Seda, Caruso and Ferrari Spumante.
The major sponsors of the event are Rustan’s, The Peninsula Manila, Synergy88. Media partner is Platinum List. Silver Secrets and Premier Wine & Spirits, Barista and Coffee Academy of Asia are also lending their support.
Tickets are at P2,500 per person which includes dinner and one raffle ticket. Additional raffle tickets at P500 each will be available during the event.
For inquiries, PIA Secretariat, Marissa Ronquillo, Tel. (02)815-1310/ philippineitalianassociation@gmail.com
PIA Web: https://philippineitalianassociation.org
PIA FB: @philippineitalianassociation