Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei featured at AWC Fete

The Asean Women’s Club featured the culture of three ASEAN countries, namely Vietnam, Brunei and the Philippines, during its the fete hosted by Mrs. Hoang Minh Ha, wife of the Vietnamese ambassador to the US, at their official residence in Washington D.C. on April 19.

Theme of the affair was "Bridging Cultures of Brunei, Vietnam, and the Philippines.” Guests were transported to each country’s unique characteristics and cultures during the 2-hour program.

Photo shows Mrs. Rosa Rai Djalal, president ASEAN Women's Club (left), acknowledges the presence of the wives of the three countries (at right, from left)  Mrs. Maria Victoria Cuisia, (Philippines), Mrs. Hoang Minh Ha, (Vietnam), and Mrs. Datin Mahani (Brunei Darussalam).

The three presenting countries showed their traditional dresses, songs, dances, and a video of their countries tourism, history, and culture. Emcees Thryza Navarete, Executive Assistant of Amb. Jose L. Cuisia, and Phuong Nguyen, from the Embassy of Vietnam, wore their respective national costumes.

Mrs. Maria Victoria Cuisia, wife of the Philippine ambassador, invited members of the Philippine American Foundation for Charities, Inc. to participate in the presentation. They are shown, from left,  Presy Guevara, Elvie Melegrito, Elvi Bangit, Jennifer Tabones, Belen Saramosing, Mrs. Vicky Cuisia, Rebecca and Pat Pagsibigan, and Jon Melegrito.

The biggest surprised was  Mrs. Hoang Minh Ha, who delighted the audience with her good voice. She sang several songs in Vietnamese. She also joined several of her staff for a fashion show later, focusing on their regional costumes.

Mrs. Datin Mahani, wife of the Brunei Darussalam Ambassador, did a fashion show.  Mrs. Mahani danced to the beat of the music, swaying, and showing off the beautiful batik fabrics that Brunei is famous for. Brunei traditional "baby shower", was also demonstrated and several audience were invited to participate.

The Philippines had  live music as background when the models were presented. Jon Melegrito was with his guitar while Pat Pagsibigan serenaded the audience with the famous Kundiman, "Ang Dalagang Filipina." PAFC models presented their beautiful Filipiniana clothes, with intricate embroideries, and cut out flower designs.

The Philippine audio visual presentation was about “its more fun in the Philippines".  Malou Araque and Thryza Navarete put it together from online and youtube clips.

Guests enjoyed the culinary presentations of the three countries: Pho and fresh garden egg roll from Vietnam. Brunei with their shrimp and fish chips, beef curries, and spice/fragrant rice.

Several desserts and other delicacies were also served.

Mrs. Rosa Rai Djalal, wife of the Indonesian Ambassador, and president of the AWC, announced the next set of countries to be presented next month. She also invited everyone to participate in the Avon Breast Cancer Run in Washington, D.C. (Text and photos by Bing C. Branigin)

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