AMBASSADOR Michèle Boccoz welcomed members of the Philippine government, the diplomatic corps and partners of the Embassy of France in an intimate reception which celebrated the French National Day on July 14.
In the presence of national government officials, Boccoz recalled France’s foreign-policy commitments in the international scene and highlighted the importance of her country’s strong political, economic, and cultural ties with the Philippines—particularly in view of the 75th Franco-Philippine diplomatic relations’ anniversary in 2022.
Given the current pandemic situation, this year’s local celebration of “Bastille Day” was organized in a “hybrid” format and with strict adherence to health and safety measures. To reach a wider audience, official speeches of the French ambassador and Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. were streamed on social media.
In addition, 11 French restaurants in Metro Manila and Cebu welcomed both the French and Filipino public for a festive evening to celebrate “14 Juillet” as they offered wine-tasting activities and special menus: Brasserie Sagana, Café Fleur, Bistro Vincent by Dr. Wine, The Bistro by Element Boutique Hotel, L’Entrecôte Manila, L’Epicerie Gourmande, Metronome, Miréio at Raffles, Society Lounge, Spiral Manila by Sofitel Philippine Plaza, and La Vie Parisienne.