

Fifty years of unity and the roadmap to stronger Vietnam and Philippines relations
Leading the commemoration of 50 years of Vietnam and Philippines diplomatic ties, DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Ambassador Lai Thai Binh gather at Century Park Hotel Manila on September 2, 2026. How can young people carry the legacy of nation-building forward into a rapidly changing region? What will future historians say about the enduring bond forged between our two nations over the past half-century? In celebration of Viet Nam's 81st Independence Day and 50 years of

Neil Gregori Garen
Sep 10


A Vietnamese cultural splash in Philippine-Viet Nam diplomatic relations
Nón lá, lotus, and puppets bring Vietnamese tradition to life. What happens when Vietnamese culture takes center stage in one of the Philippines’ most historic landmarks? And what can two Southeast Asian neighbors discover about each other through puppets, music, and dance? The answer came alive through “Rhythms of the Land, Puppets of the Water: Viet Nam Cultural Days in Manila,” a celebration of 50 years of Philippine-Viet Nam Diplomatic Relations. On August 7, 2026, Fort S

Neil Gregori Garen
Aug 15


Colors of Vietnam celebrating 50 years of relations with the Philippines
How can a single photograph capture the spirit of a nation and connect it to another? How can the aroma of traditional coffee bridge the gap between two Southeast Asian neighbors? As Vietnam and Philippines mark 50 years of friendship, their shared traditions and evolving landscapes continue to shape regional tourism. The "Colors of Vietnam" event, recently held at the Vietnam Embassy in Manila and attended by foreign diplomats, was led by His Excellency Lai Thai Binh and hig

Neil Gregori Garen
Mar 29


Why Sa Pa, Vietnam is the soulful escape missing from your travel list
When did travel last feel like a release, not just another rush? Could there still be a place that invites you to breathe deeper and move...

Neil Gregori Garen
Jun 22, 2025
