11 August 2005 – The Philippine Embassy in Brunei reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that the “little ambassadors” has done their share in the mission of promoting the country and sharing their talent through music and dance.

Dancing to Totoy Bibo and Otso-Otso, the Embassy kids performed the opening numbers for the International Gala Night competition organized by Brunei's Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports for the 59th birthday celebrations of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah on 29 July 2005.

Having rehearsed for their performance for a week, the Embassy kids were well applauded by a mixed crowd of Filipinos and Bruneians who were present at the stage area in one of several grounds in Bandar Seri Begawan set up for the public celebrations.

In addition to the dances of the Embassy kids, song numbers were also rendered by Mr. Bobby Boac, staff of the Embassy, and Ms. Mary Ann Abuda, a member of the Filipino community in Brunei Darussalam.  Mrs. Ma. Cecilia G. Ascalon, wife of Second Secretary and Consul Jaime Ramon T. Ascalon, emceed the Philippine segment.  In the singing competition that followed, Ms. Bridget Ang, a 10-year old Filipina with a powerful voice, emerged champion in the women's karaoke category.

Philippine Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez, graced the affair that was also attended by the Embassy personnel. She was impressed and delighted with the dance numbers of the Embassy kids and the performance of Mr. Boac and Ms. Abuda.   She congratulated them for exhibiting Filipino creativity and talent, and demonstrating the Filipino's world-renowned distinctive reputation in dance and music.

Ambassador Benavidez also thanked the organizers for the wonderful opportunity given to the Philippine Embassy and the Filipino community to participate in His Majesty's birthday celebrations and enhance greater goodwill, understanding and friendship between Filipinos and Bruneians especially in this joyous and significant occasion. END