15 August 2005 – The Philippine Embassy in Prague reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that the exhibition of four Czech artists entitled, "Art Expedition Philippines 2004", at the prestigious Jiri Tnka Gallery in July further enhanced the Embassy’s tourism promotion efforts.

Held under the auspices of the Union of Visual Artists of Plzen and the David and Jakub Advertising Agency, the exhibit brought together an impressive collection of some fifty pieces of art work including photography, paintings and graphic designs.

Philippine Ambassador to Prague Carmelita R. Salas visited the exhibit where she extended her congratulations to the artist and expressed deep delight that their Philippine journey proved to be a great inspiration for their art.   Ambassador Salas also expressed the Embassy’s deep appreciation for the artists’ wonderful contribution towards bridging the cultures of the two countries and the hope that the exhibit will increase the community’s interest in the Philippines as a  tourist destination.

The fours Czech artists are MgA. Vaclav Hyneik (photographer), Mal. Jiri Rataj (painter), Mr. Pavel Zilak (graphics painter) and MuDr. David Hyneik (graphics designer). They visited Manila, Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon, Mindoro Island and Palawan in October and November 2004. They expressed their delight at experiencing the beauty of unspoiled nature and the warmth of Filipino  hospitality and now plan to send art supplies as gifts to the children. END