THE GALEON ANDALUCIA ARRIVES AT MANILA

The much-awaited Galeon Andalucia has finally arrived in Manila, providing the highlight of the Dia del Galleon Festival made possible by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and Senator Egdardo J. Angara, head of the Dia del Galeon Steering Committee and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education, Culture and the Arts.

At around 7:30 this morning, the majestic replica of 16th Century galleons docked at Pier 13 at the South Harbor in Manila. Its arrival was greeted by a lyre Band with Native, Spanish and Mexican-inspired dancers.

Spectaculos from the Artes Talleres cultural workshop officially launched the welcoming ceremony for the Andalucia. Following Manila Mayor Alfredo S. Lim's brief speech to welcome the participants, NCCA Chairman Dr. Vilma Labrador delivered the Declaration of Manila as the first ASEAN ASEAN Culture Capital highlighted city.

Mayor Lim then presented a Key to the City of Manila to the President of Nao Fundacion Victoria, Juan Salas Tornero, who responded with an effusive message of gratitude and appreciation for the warm welcome that they received.

UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova explained the importance of celebrating the Dia del Galeon not just to the Philippines, but also to the international community.

Mayor Lim and Bro. Armin Luistro gave special gifts to the teachers and superintendents who attended the c in celebration of Teacher's Day. Refreshments and entertainment wrapped up the program, led by Department of Tourism Director Jose Capistrano Jr.

The tourism officials and the Dia del Galeon Committee made the first official tour of the Galeon Andalucia, accompanied by members of the media.