UK’s Best: The Great British Festival Makes an Epic Come Back

March  25 2023 – The best of Britain came together for an enormous celebration that marked the presence of the United Kingdom in the Philippines. Since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1946, the United Kingdom and The Philippines’ bilateral relations prospered and continue to grow til this very day.

Although history tidbits have shown that the UK and Philippines have more than hundreds of years of ties, dating back to Sir Francis Drake’s travels. In true British fashion, the spirit of the nation showed in The Great British Festival Manila, a jamboree of all things quintessentially UK. Organized by the Embassy of The United Kingdom and Ireland with the British Chamber of Commerce and British Council.

On a hot sunny day, the festival collectively united prominent British household names that made their mark in the Philippines, such as Marks and Spencers, Dune London, Lush Cosmetics, Mothercare, Land Rover, Triumph Motorcycles,  The Berry Company, HSBC,  and more on its two-day venture.

Opening remarks were made by His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Palau Laure Beaufils and British Chamber of Commerce Director and Trustee Chris Nelson. Both expressed absolute delight at the festivities being resumed after four years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

HMA Laure Beaufils and BCC Director Chris Nelson with Land Rover PH

“ The festival is a demonstration of our strong diplomatic relations here in the Philippines, and I cannot thank the British Chambers of Commerce and British Council enough for all the hard work that was poured into making all of this happen. “ – HMA Laure Beaufils

“ This is a revival of having all things British being back, with newer brands and opportunities for all industries to partake in. Everything from education, food, culture, technology, and innovation. The festival shows what the UK and The Philippines have created together in their partnership, both here and in the UK.” – British Chambers of Commerce Director Chris Nelson

Lush Cosmetics Bath Bombs

Fair-goers were treated to a combination of fun, knowledge and creativity as performances by Drag Queen extraordinaire Empryadora, Miss Felicia, and Rupaul’s Drag Race Philippines’ Miss Congeniality Lady Morgana wowed onlookers with stellar acts that paid tribute to British theatre.

F1 simulators from Second Skin industries gave motorsports enthusiasts and curious onlookers a realistic experience that thrilled the senses. While the UK Cybersecurity group, CyberQ talked about the importance of cyber resilience and awareness online.

Festival food and drinks sated the thirst and hunger of many during the hot day with beverages such as PIMMS cocktails, Cider Beer, and British classics such as Scotch eggs, Cumberland Sausages, British Pizza, Fish and Chips, and Chicken Tikka. Served by One World Butchers, Borough Pizza Hub, and The Union Jack Tavern.

Aside from that, educational institutions such as the British School of Manila, Nord Anglia International School of Manila and Southville International School highlighted the best of The British School System with programs for their postgraduate and bachelor degrees.

Since its inception in 2014, the Great British Festival has sought to celebrate everything British: music, arts, fashion, sports, education and food – celebrating the ties between the UK and the Philippines.
Since then, the festival has showcased the unique mix of such a partnership through creativity, heritage and innovation through booth and trade exhibitions, performances and activities in the heart of Bonifacio Global City, Manila, Philippines.

Follow the Great British Festival for more updates on upcoming events:

IG ukinthephilippines
IG greatbritishfestival

IG: officialbccphil

Written by: Managing Editor – Cyan Leigh Dacasin | Official Photos: Carissa Mia Cruz