Guests were welcomed by H.E. Ambassador Menashe Bar On, Mrs. Eti Bar On and other members of the diplomatic staff. ​Members of the government, the Jewish community, the diplomatic corps and media attended the grand celebration.

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador Bar On reaffirmed the unbreakable friendship of the Philippines and Israel. The Ambassador also revealed that the two countries are further working on areas of cooperation such as trade, investments and people-to-people exchanges.

The Department of Foreign Affairs' Undersecretary for International Economic Relations, Honorable Laura del Rosario, represented the Philippine government. She also commended the activities of the Embassy and spoke about the rich history of the Jewish people.

In attendance were notable personalities from the government such as former President Fidel V. Ramos, Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Emmanuel Bautista, newly-installed DFA Undersecretary for Policy Evan Garcia and DND Undersecretary, Fernando Manalo – among others.

Guests also sampled the best of Israeli cuisine, such as fish kebabs, Sambousek (fried stuffed pastry), quiche, Israeli salads, penne pasta with cherry tomatoes and the ever-loved Mediterranean staple, hummus with pita.