Embassy News

 

 

 

 

 

 
       
 

Philippine Embassy Showcases "Ube Diplomacy" and End VAWC Advocacy at the 2025 PFOWA Annual Charity Bazaar

 
     
 
ISLAMABAD, 23 November 2025-The Philippine Embassy in Islamabad proudly participated in the Pakistan Foreign Office Women's Association (PFOWA) Annual Charity Bazaar held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) Grounds. This year's contribution highlighted the Embassy's signature blend of cultural diplomacy and gender advocacy under the theme "Together for a Better Tomorrow: Ube Diplomacy and Empowerment through Equality." The Philippine delegation was led by Ambassador Emmanuel R. Fernandez and Mme. Alicia Kalaw-Fernandez.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar inaugurated the event and commended PFOWA's longstanding commitment to humanitarian causes, welfare of Foreign Office personnel and families, and its tradition of uniting diplomatic missions, volunteers, and partner organizations to support underprivileged communities across Pakistan. He also visited the many vibrant cultural booths, including the Philippine stall.

Ube Diplomacy as Cultural Soft Power

The Philippine booth showcased its much-loved modern _ube_ (purple yam) delicacies-cupcakes and brownies-reflecting Filipino creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and culinary innovation. The Embassy's "Ube Diplomacy" initiative positions the Filipino purple yam as a cultural icon and symbol of resilience, ingenuity, and shared heritage. The booth's lavender visual identity not only represented the ube's natural hue but also harmonized with the color associated globally with women's empowerment movements.

All proceeds from the sale of Filipino desserts were donated directly to PFOWA in support of its programs on education, widows' welfare, and medical assistance for low-paid employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Advocacy for Gender Equality and Ending Violence Against Women and Children (End VAWC)

Taking place just two days before the Philippine observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women and Children (25 November-12 December)-and coinciding with the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence-the Embassy also used the bazaar as a platform to raise awareness on gender protection.

A dedicated "End VAWC Advocacy Corner" featured informational materials, advocacy visuals, and a photo booth decorated in lavender and orange, symbolizing solidarity with global and national movements against gender-based violence. Visitors were encouraged to take photos, learn about the campaign, and join efforts to promote women's safety and dignity.

Promoting Philippine Gender and Development (GAD) Commitments

By integrating cultural presentation with gender advocacy, the Embassy's participation contributed to its institutional GAD objectives. The project simultaneously fulfilled requirements under the Philippine government's GAD attribution guidelines, ensuring that diplomatic initiatives meaningfully reinforce gender equality and women's empowerment.

A Collective Spirit for a Better Tomorrow

The Embassy's dual-booth concept brought together creativity, compassion, and community engagement-embodying PFOWA's 2025 theme. Filipino cultural elements complemented the advocacy for equality, while the interactive photo booth fostered dialogue and awareness. The highly engaging setup demonstrated how Philippine cultural diplomacy continues to highlight the nation's character: warm, innovative, people-centered, and committed to humanitarian goals.

The Philippine Embassy extends its appreciation to PFOWA for organizing this impactful annual event and reaffirms its support for initiatives that contribute to social welfare, cultural understanding, and gender empowerment in Pakistan.
 
       
 
 
 
 

 

     
     
     
Embassy of the Philippines Consular Building Follow Us On Social Media
Address:  Address: 
Plot No. 3, 4, and 5 Khayaban-e-Suhrwardy Plot No. 3, 4, and 5 Khayaban-e-Suhrwardy  
Diplomatic Enclave Sector G-5 Diplomatic Enclave Sector G-5  
Islamabad, Pakistan Islamabad, Pakistan  
     
Consular Mobile No. Passport Processing  
+92-333-1509891 Mon-Fri: 9:00 am  - 3:00 pm  
     
Officer Hours: Other Services  
Mon-Fri: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Mon-Fri: 9:00 am - 11:00 am  
     
For Emergency Assistance    
Assistance to Nationals    
and Violence Against Women (VAW) Desk:    
+92 333-5244762    
     

Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines Islamabad, Pakistan