08 January 2004 – In connection with the Philippines’ hosting of the Forum for East Asia-Latin America Cooperation (FEALAC) Meetings this January, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), in cooperation with the Araneta Group of Companies, the Quezon City Government and the Department of Tourism (DOT) is holding a two-day FEALAC Fiesta on the 17th and 18th of January 2004 at the Ali Mall within the Araneta Center Commercial Complex.

Tagged as “East Asia Meets Latin America at the Araneta,” the FEALAC Fiesta will be a big event to foster awareness about FEALAC and its member-countries among Filipinos.  The Fiesta’s main event is an exhibition by the FEALAC member-countries at the Ali Mall ground level atrium, which will be a combination of cultural and trade exhibits.  This Fiesta exhibit is a good opportunity to showcase the cultural variety of the member-countries in an exchange that will promote better understanding between the two regions. The Fiesta is also an event that will promote the country as a venue for international cultural exchange.  DOT, with its expertise in exhibitions will be in charge of the Philippines’ booth.

The Fiesta Exhibit will be opened by a ceremony on Saturday, 17 January 2003 to be graced by members of FEALAC Diplomatic Corps and the key officials of DFA, DOT, Quezon City and the Araneta Group of Companies.  But to give the opening ceremonies a truly Filipino fiesta flavor, it will be highlighted by a grand parade of nations organized by the Government of Quezon City and Quezon City schools to take place at noon.  The grand parade will show off the colors of the FEALAC member-countries and will come complete with a marching symphonic band and indigenous Filipino street dancing. FEALAC is composed of 32 member countries from the East Asian and Latin American Regions.  The Philippines, which is taking a lead role in the charting the organization’s outlook, is hosting FEALAC’s second foreign ministers’ meeting.  END.