For the first time ever, the Philippines joined the world-famous Venice Carnival (Carnevale di Venezia) and brought its rich culture to the heart of Italy! The event, known for its beautiful masks and grand costumes, was the perfect stage for showcasing Filipino folk dances.
A Spectacular Filipino Performance in Venice
On Saturday, 36 talented dancers from three different dance groups performed at the Piazza San Marco, one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks. The 30-minute show featured traditional dances from different parts of the Philippines, highlighting the country’s vibrant heritage.
- The Lahing Kayumanggi Dance Company, a well-known group from London, performed various folk dances that represented the diverse regions of the Philippines.
- The Filipino Community of Vicenza delighted the audience with Bulaklakin, a graceful dance where performers use floral garlands to create mesmerizing patterns.
Why This Event Was Special for the Philippines
The Philippine Consulate General in Milan played a big role in making this happen. Consul General Elmer Cato shared that joining the Venice Carnival was a huge step in promoting the Philippines to Italy and the rest of the world.
“We hope that by participating in Carnevale di Venezia, more Italians and other foreigners will become interested in the Philippines and discover what our country has to offer,” Cato said.
Filipinos in Italy: A Strong Community
The event was also a proud moment for the nearly 200,000 Filipinos living in Italy. Seeing their home country’s culture shine on such a grand international stage was both exciting and emotional.
With this incredible debut at the Venice Carnival, the Philippines has once again proven that its rich traditions and artistic talents deserve the world’s attention. 🌍✨
