It was a lovely Thursday evening when the Philippine Ambassador to Israel, His Excellency Generoso Calonge, welcomed dignitaries, journalists, art aficionados and other special VIP’s to the opening night of Photo Exhibition 2011. Israeli photographer, Eliad Yahalom, put together a beautiful exhibit of photos taken during his recent trip to the Philippines over the summer and highlighted many of the hidden treasures of the land.

Event origins
Having traveled to the Philippines several times, Yahalom fell in love with the country and the warmth of its people. In every region he visited he was overwhelmed by how every tourist is received with “open arms”. He approached the Embassy about hosting a show with his photos to share this love and help excite his fellow Israelis about the country too. All works that were on display are available for purchase. Prices range from 2500 NIS and up.

Philippine-Israel relations
The whole night was truly designed to share the beauty for the Philippine Islands with the people of Israel. Ambassador Calonge enumerated many ways that the people of the Philippines had aided Israel and the long-standing goodwill that flows between the two countries. Did you know that after the Holocaust, the Philippines were one of the first nations to open their country to survivors? Grateful to have the opportunity to share the many beautiful cultural aspects of the Philippines, from the scenic beaches to dance to marital arts, the Ambassador enthusiastically encouraged people to travel to the Philippines.  

Crash course in Filipino culture
In addition to the works shown by Yahalom, guests were treated to cultural presentations. First up was an Arnis (Filipino martial arts) demonstration by Master Jon Escudero and several of his students. Demonstrating the lethalness of many types of weapons, Escudero explained the history behind each weapon and the thought behind each stroke. My favorite part of his demonstration was when he used a short knife to disarm his opponent and then casually asked the victim if he would like a shave!

VIP’s were also treated to a demonstration of Filipino dancing and watched the dance troupe perform several numbers from the mountain people of the Kalinga.  Dances included the Gangsa, Banga and Salidsid.

There was also a special musical performance by Noy Pillora, a famous Filipino folk rock artist. He currently lives in Israel with his family.

Feed me!
By far one of the best parts of the night was the Filipino food served to the guests! Pancit, lumpia, biko and puto, as traditional to Filipinos as hummus and tahini are to Israeli’s, was served to many a curious eater. I was a little too late in line to sample the lumpia (egg rolls) and that did make me a bit sad. However, the biko (sticky rice cake) and pancit (Filipino noodles) more than made up for it- it was like being back home with my Tita’s (Auntie’s) cooking. I was even more thrilled to learn that the food was kosher!

See for yourself
The photo exhibition will be on display until December 15th. It’s located at the Enav Cultural Center at Ibn Gvirol 71. Admission is free.

Location
Enav Cultural Center
Ibn Gvirol 71
Corner of Ibn Gvirol and Rembrandt

Phone
03-6045000