We solemnly marked the first night of the Filipino Christmas tradition of Simbang Gabi with the Filipino Catholic community led by Fr. Francis Ofrancia, coming together in faith and devotion. After the Mass, everyone shared the warmth of the season by enjoying traditional Filipino treats like bibingka, puto bumbong, and arroz caldo. It was a meaningful evening of prayer, fellowship, and the celebration of our shared Christmas heritage.
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Delighted to be part of the first-ever Paskong PINASaya in Nürnberg, organized by Philnity e.V, and supported by the Consulate and PH Department of Tourism Office in Frankfurt, this meaningful celebration brings together Filipino and German Christmas traditions. Set against the historic backdrop of Faber Castell Castle, it showcases the richness of Filipino food, products, and talents, while sharing our stories, values and tradition with our German friends. As the Philippines prepares to be Guest of Honour at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair, this event serves as an opportunity to highlight the power of cultural exchange with Santa Claus giving the gift of Filipino books. Together, let us celebrate the joy of sharing Filipino stories, love, unity, and the spirit of belonging this holiday season. Maligayang Pasko!
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Consul General Ivy Banzon Abalos today met with Hanau Mayor Claus Kaminsky to explore avenues for cultural and literary collaboration, paving the way for deeper ties between the Philippines and the birthplace of the Brothers Grimm. Renowned for its iconic fairy tales, Hanau offers a vibrant platform to showcase the Philippines’ rich literary traditions, including its folktales, legends, and contemporary works, in the lead-up to the country’s Guest of Honour role at the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair. Discussions highlighted Philippine presence in the city’s prominent cultural events, as a prime venue to introduce Filipino stories to German audiences. This collaboration seeks to celebrate the universal power of storytelling, bridging cultures and fostering deeper connections through shared literary heritage. END
The 2024 Frankfurter Buchmesse kicks off today, October 16, and runs until October 20, celebrating global literature and freedom of expression in a four-day literary spectacle under the theme FBM24 is Read!ng. This year, the Philippines showcases its rich literary heritage and creative talent, marking a significant moment for its delegation on the international stage.
The Philippine delegation, led by Ambassador Susan Natividad, National Book Development Board (NBDB) Chairman Dante Ang, Consul General Ivy Banzon Abalos, and National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Executive Director Dr. Eric Zerrudo, takes its place on the international stage. With around 170 members from various sectors—government, authors, creatives, publishers, and more—the delegation showcases the strength and depth of the Philippines’ creative industries. As the country prepares for its prestigious role as Guest of Honor at the 2025 Frankfurter Buchmesse, this year offers a preview of the Philippine narratives and voices that will soon captivate the world.
The Philippines’ participation at #FBM2024 is a significant boost to the country’s publishing and creative industries. In addition to the main Philippine Pavilion, four other stands are strategically positioned throughout the fair, representing different literary sectors: New Adult, Children’s and Young Adult Media, Education, and Comics and Graphic Novels. These stands highlight the Philippines’ growing presence and influence in the global literary scene, showcasing the evolving creativity and diverse stories from Filipino authors and artists. This expanded footprint is proof of the rising recognition of Filipino literature, providing readers with a rich array of genres that span from traditional to contemporary themes.
As the Philippines gears up for its Guest of Honor role in 2025, its strong showing at this year’s fair lays the groundwork for even greater global impact. The 2024 participation signals the readiness of the country’s publishing sector to forge new international partnerships, expand its reach, and further solidify its place in the global literary community. With an exciting program planned for next year, the Philippines will celebrate its unique storytelling tradition, offering a cultural and creative showcase that promises to elevate Filipino literature on the world stage. END
Congratulations to Bücher bei Dausien for delighting readers for 75 years!
A big thanks to owner Mr. Joachim Weihl and Ulrich and Sybille Dausien seen here with Consul General Ivy Banzon Abalos.
In her remarks, Senator Loren Legarda, who has significantly contributed to fostering deep bilateral connections based on mutual respect and cooperation between the Philippines and Germany, emphasized Rizal’s lasting friendships formed during his time in Germany and remembered him as a global symbol of resilience, enlightenment, and hope. She highlighted the opportunity to strengthen these ties through her various initiatives, including promoting Philippine Studies in top German universities, advocating for cultural exchange and economic cooperation, and the reopening of the Philippine Consulate in Frankfurt. Senator Legarda also mentioned collaborations on climate resilience with Germany and looked forward to the Philippines’ upcoming role as the Guest of Honor Country during the 2025 Frankfurter Buchmesse. During the event, attendees also enjoyed a film showing of “Finding Rizal in a Time of Barriers,” which she conceptualized and envisioned to document Rizal’s significant journey through Germany. END
