James Bond, The Bard Headline UK’s 3rd Season Fest Campaign

(PNA) — The British Embassy in Manila and its partners are back to share arts, culture and business with Filipinos with its GREAT Campaign after a lull of seven months.

Now on its third season, GREAT Campaign will highlight fashion, food, music, sport, education and other aspects of Britain.

Trade missions, competitions galore and roadshows, plus one or two surprises through the social media activities are going to be revealed as they come up.

“British Ambassador Asif Ahmad said on Wednesday, “We have seen a surge of interest in British cars, fashion brands and food and drink products in the Philippines.

“More people are experiencing world-class British creativity, innovation and heritage. More Filipinos are visiting the UK than ever for business, to study, or to go on holiday.”

Ahmad added “If you can’t come to Britain right now, let us come to you. There’s more of Britain than ever in the Philippines and we want to share our creativity, innovation and heritage.

“We are joining the launch of the next James Bond movie, Spectre. We are also celebrating the life and wonder of Shakespeare.”

He said that there will be fashion, music, film, food, drink and much more. We will also have social media contests throughout the year so follow the British Embassy Manila on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter including using his own handle, @asifaahmad to join us and take a piece of Britain with you.

The campaign kicks off with the Sport is GREAT: Rugby World Cup event on Sept.19, at the NOMADS Sports Club in Parañaque to see the local favorites Philippine Volcanoes and cheer on the teams representing England, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Japan, United States, and Wales while sampling good food and drink.

Ahmad said it will be a fun-filled day for kids and adults alike and what’s more, admission is free.

GREAT gets into top gear in Oct. 20 by celebrating the James Bond film-themed UK-Philippine Friendship Day at Makati Shangri-la.

Guests will love the sleek Aston Martin and Jaguar cars and enjoy Macallan whisky as well as other drinks at the open bar as tickets are available for sale now.

Shopaholics and fashionistas will get a chance in Nov. to win a trip to the UK by joining the GREAT British Shopping Contest starting, with over 30 participating British brands in outlets all over Metro Manila and selected provinces as perfect excuse to begin Christmas shopping.

The Great British Festival is coming back, bigger and better with a three-day bash in Bonifacio High Street between Feb. 26 to 28 next year, presenting the best that Britain has to offer.

Among the GREAT partners are the British Council Philippines, British Chamber of Commerce Philippines and the British Alumni Association.

Details of the various events and how to get involved can be found at the British Embassy Manila Facebook page and Twitter account (@ukinphilippines). (PNA) CTB/LOR