PRESS RELEASE
WDC-29-2026
05 May 2026
Embassy Press and Information Section
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. welcomed over 5,000 guests during the 2026 Passport DC: Around the World Embassy Tour (AWET), one of the largest cultural events in the U.S. capital. The AWET is an annual celebration of global cultures in the U.S. capital, with over 60 embassies participating in this year’s dynamic celebration of global cultures.
This event also coincided with the Embassy’s observance of Philippine National Heritage Month and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, both celebrated in May. This year’s participation also highlighted the 80th Anniversary of Philippines–United States diplomatic relations, underscoring the enduring partnership between the two nations.
Reflecting on the importance of the celebration, Ambassador Jose Manuel G. Romualdez said that “As we celebrate America 250 alongside 80 years of Philippines – United States diplomatic relations, we are reminded of a partnership built on enduring friendship, shared history, and deep people-to-people ties. Beyond today’s program, we invite everyone to explore the richness of our heritage, vibrant culture, and the warmth of the Filipino spirit.”
In collaboration with Filipino brands, artists, and cultural organizations, the Embassy, in partnership with Canlast Productions, curated an immersive cultural experience that showcased the Philippines’ diverse heritage through food, music, dance, and tourism engagement. The initiative supported the “Love the Philippines” campaign, with a focus on fostering meaningful interactions and deeper cultural connections with guests.
The program featured vibrant cultural performances that brought Filipino traditions to life. Mabuhay, Inc. presented traditional dances such as Tinikling, Bulaklakan, and Singkil, while Pinakatay Arnis delivered a dynamic demonstration of Filipino martial arts. Musical performances by Duke Harana, who specially traveled from Duke University in North Carolina, showcased both Filipino classics and contemporary pieces, offering audiences a rich and engaging experience of the country’s musical heritage.
Guests were also treated to a selection of authentic Filipino flavors, including candies and snacks distributed by the Embassy, along with mango juice provided by the Philippine Department of Agriculture.
The Embassy likewise showcased samples from several food vendors who brought the flavors of the Philippines to life. The Embassy extends its gratitude to Toby’s Ice Cream, Cocoi’s Sweets and Pastries’, CHPTR Eats, and Sangkutsarang Sarap for their generous contribution of samples to Washingtonians and Embassy visitors.
Beyond culinary offerings, Filipino designers and artisans Colleen Roxas, Kislap Jewelry, and Wika Designs contributed to the cultural showcase by presenting contemporary Filipino craftsmanship. They highlighted the use of indigenous materials such as pearls and natural fibers, and explained to guests important Filipino symbolisms (e.g., meaning of the national colors, famous Filipino expressions, etc.).
The Tourism Booth set up by the Philippine Department of Tourism New York Office invited guests to explore the country’s world-renowned destinations. Through curated visuals and informative materials, the booth encouraged future travel and highlighted the Philippines’ natural beauty and hospitality.
Passport DC, held each May to commemorate International Cultural Awareness Month in the District of Columbia, highlights the global presence of Washington, D.C.’s diplomatic community. The Around the World Embassy Tour, one of the program’s flagship events, invites the public to experience diverse cultures through a day of traditional dance, music, art, and cuisine.
The Philippine Embassy reaffirms its commitment to advancing cultural diplomacy and strengthening people to people ties, and looks forward to welcoming even more guests in future editions of Passport DC.
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Ambassador Jose Manuel G. Romualdez warmly welcomes guests to the Philippine Embassy, inviting them to experience the Philippines’ rich history, vibrant culture, and the genuine warmth of the Filipino people.
The Mabuhay, Inc. Dance Ensemble brought Filipino traditions to life with vibrant performances of Bulaklakan, a lively floral dance inspired by the Santa Cruz de Mayo festival, and Singkil, rooted in Maranao heritage, Singkil portrays a royal princess gracefully navigating an earthquake caused by forest spirits, as she moves between clashing bamboo poles with the aid of fans symbolizing wind and nature. The celebration continued beyond the stage, as guests joined in and tried Tinikling themselves, stepping into the rhythm and energy of one of the Philippines’ most beloved dances.
Pinakatay Arnis showcased traditional techniques, introducing guests to the rich heritage of Filipino martial arts. Guests also had the opportunity to try arnis firsthand, adding an interactive and engaging element to the experience.
Duke University’s Harana captivated the audience with a stirring rendition of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), bringing heartfelt melodies and Filipino pride to the Embassy stage.
Guests eagerly lined up to enjoy Filipino flavors, including popular snacks and candies distributed by the Embassy, along with refreshing mango juice provided by the Philippine Department of Agriculture.
The Tourism Booth by the Philippine Department of Tourism New York Office invited guests to explore the Philippines’ world-renowned destinations, with curated visuals and informative materials showcasing the country’s natural beauty and warm hospitality.
Guests indulged in Filipino flavors from Toby’s Ice Cream, Cocoi’s Sweets and Pastries, CHPTR Eats, and StrEat Foods by Sangkutsarang Sarap, bringing a true taste of the Philippines to every bite.
Vendors showcasing Filipino designed and inspired products added depth to the cultural experience, with Kislap Jewelry,Colleen Roxas, and Wika Designs highlighting contemporary Filipino creativity and craftsmanship.
Guests captured fun and memorable moments at the photobooth, taking home a snapshot of their Philippine Embassy experience.