Vibrant Cebuano Feast Greets APEC Delegates

The Cebu Provincial Government rolled out the red carpet as more than 200 local and foreign guests including Capitol officials gathered last October 12 for the banquet dinner of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Energy Ministerial Meeting at the Capitol Social Hall.

Cebu has again played host to participants of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) with transportation and energy ministerial meetings held last October 8-14, 2015.

The beautiful façade of the Capitol gradually lit as the APEC vehicles approached bringing the delegates. They were welcomed by a swarm of fine-looking performers dressed in vibrant costumes as they greeted the guests while they were served with light cocktail drinks. A live violin performance also set the ambiance to a warm and festive mood.

Governor Hilario P. Davide III and his wife Mrs. Jobel Angan-Davide together with Vice-governor Agnes A. Magpale received the guests and casually chatted with them before entering the Capitol Social Hall.

Sen. Loren Legarda was also present at the dinner. Legarda was delivering her keynote speech earlier at the APEC Energy Ministerial Meeting.

“Energy security should be our ultimate objective. To ensure energy security, what the region needs to develop, what APEC must pursue, is a rational mix of power sources,” Governor Davide said in his welcome speech.

“Financial cost should not be the main concern. We have to look at reliability, dependability and sustainability,” Davide added.

The Capitol Social Hall was transformed into a delightfully garden inspired setting with laid-back elegance. The energy officials were able to experience what a traditional Cebuano fiesta is like. Delegates were served with mix of Filipino and Cebuano cuisine and among the highlights of the buffet is Cebu’s famous “lechon” or roasted pig.

To complete the evening, spectacular, colorful and popular cultural dance presentations of various festivals of Cebu were featured and the well applauded performances of DOE Chorale.

Ultimately, one may remember not only Cebu’s history, heritage, tradition, culture and art conveyed through songs and dances but it is the Cebuano’s unique brand of hospitality that has made their visit an experience truly unforgettable.

www.cebu.gov.ph