Organized by the British Embassy Manila, the British Chamber of Commerce Philippines, and the British Council Philippines–the Great British Festival 2024 marked a significant milestone in celebrating the longstanding friendship between the UK and the Philippines, showcasing the deepening ties between the two nations. Held at the BGC Amphitheatre last October 19-20, the event celebrated cultural exchange and the growing trade relations across various sectors.
In an interview, BCCP Executive Director/Trustee Chris Nelson mentioned that this year’s Great British Festival is significantly larger than last year’s. Participation rose from 38 companies in 2023 to over 56 in 2024, which implies an increase of nearly 50%.
Nelson, alongside Deputy Ambassador Alistair White, delivered their welcoming remarks on the 19th of October, with Nelson further noting, “We welcome everyone to this year’s Great British Festival. This year, we did not only expect it to be bigger, but what made it more special is the fact that we will be celebrating the UK-Philippine Friendship Day on the 20th of October. We had a 50% increase in terms of companies who joined us this year, totaling over 56 companies that vary across major UK companies and local brands. This only shows the growing bilateral relations and the Filipino-British business communities.”
Emphasis on more cultural exchange programs in other areas of Manila and other regions of the country is part of the UK’s long-term goal as it further expands its presence in the Philippines with Deputy Ambassador Alistair White remarking on this year’s highlights on a positive note, “We would like to showcase more British theatre and arts through different fringe events around the Metro, on the lifestyle side, our main goal is to see more British brands make their way to the Philippines.”
The festival served as a medium to celebrate the shared values and diversity that strengthened the bond between the British and Filipinos over the years. It featured a variety of attractions, from traditional British and Filipino food to live music performances and interactive exhibits from Member companies of the British Chamber, major UK and local companies.
With increasing development in culture, education, trade, and export, UK Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils expressed, “Our economic and trade partnership is thriving…This year we are working to upgrade our trade relationship with a new Joint Economic Trade Committee…The Philippines, with its vibrant culture and dynamic economy, has long been a valued partner of the UK and is increasingly so. There is so much we can do together and I look forward to enhancing our collaboration even further.”
