The Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco joined the celebration of Malaysia’s 67th National Day Anniversary on Wednesday, September 4.
The event, hosted by the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila and led by Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency (H.E.) Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, highlighted the enduring partnership between the Philippines and Malaysia.
The two nations have shared a robust relationship since diplomatic ties were established in 1959. Over the decades, they have collaborated closely as neighbors and key partners in ASEAN, working together on regional stability, trade, and tourism.
Tourism remains a vital link in PH-Malaysia relations. Malaysia is among the top ten sources of international visitors to the Philippines, with 64,422 Malaysians visiting the country from January to August this year.
The event underscored the significance of this connection, emphasizing ongoing efforts to boost tourism and cultural exchange.
Aleem Guiapal, Director of the DTI Halal Industry Development Office, expressed his gratitude for the recognition given to his office by the Malaysian Embassy.
“Celebrating the 67th National Day of Malaysia with family, friends, and the hardworking men and women of the Embassy of Malaysia in the Philippines was an honor. Thank you, Excellency Ambassador Dato Malik Melvin Castelino, for recognizing the efforts of the DTI Halal Industry Development Office and the initiatives of our leadership led by Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque. Maraming salamat and Happy 67th National Day,” he shared.
The reception, held at the Makati Shangri-La hotel, was attended by several distinguished personalities.
Among them were former Senator and Tourism Secretary Richard J. Gordon, Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Carlito Galvez, Jr., DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista, and BARMM Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim.
The gathering reinforced the shared commitment of the Philippines and Malaysia to continue building upon their longstanding relations, with tourism and cultural exchange remaining central to their partnership.
