Philippines Celebrates 75 Years Of Philippine-Hellenic Diplomatic Relations And Assumption To ASEAN Chairmanship

ATHENS, Greece—The diplomatic corps, as well as the leaders of the Filipino community in Athens and Greek government officials gathered together for a joint celebration of the Philippines’ chairmanship in the ASEAN and the 75 years of diplomatic relations between the Republic of the Philippines and the Hellenic Republic.

The event was hosted by the Philippine embassy in Athens headed by His Excellency Ambassador Giovanni E. Palec and his wife, Madam Novelyn Palec.

Held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel last 16 December 2025, the event highlighted the presentation of the ASEAN logo for 2026, the theme “Navigating Our Future Together”, the strong diplomatic ties of Philippines and Greece and the celebration of 30 years of exemplary service of Thessaloniki Honorary Consul Nikolaos Margaropoulos.

Present in the event were Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Greek National Tourism Organization President Angela Varela who both delivered their messages of gratitude and congratulations.

The guests enjoyed great Filipino singing talents, as well as Greek and Filipino cuisines including Lechon and different Pinoy sweets.

As the Philippines leads ASEAN this 2026, the Embassy assured its commitment to promoting meaningful partnerships, cooperation, friendship and stronger ties with Greece, as they share aspirations for peace and prosperity.