CITY OF TABUK, Kalinga(PIA)-- European Union (EU) Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Véron  personally experienced  Kalinga hospitality and witnessed  its  rich cultural heritage  during his visit to the province on January  22 to 25.

Gov. James S. Edduba led  local officials  in welcoming  the ambassador and his party in “Mangili Night” that featured  the vibrant culture of Kalinga especially its dances.  He thanked  the ambassador  for  visiting the province, emphasizing the significance of cultural exchange and collaboration.

The Ambassador underlined the strong ties between the Philippines and the European Union which has  brought growing trade relations, education and skills development and culture engagement. He looks forward to deepening these  relations.

As a culture advocate, Véron  deeply appreciated the cultural presentation. “We look forward to witnessing your rich culture, dances and artworks showing your deep connection to your ancestral roots,” he said.

Véron, accompanied by his wife Nicole Weissman, Attaché Cynthia Hendaoui,  and Assistant to the Political Section Michiko Quinto, visited some tourist sites  and met with Kalinga’s  cultural icons, and other leaders.

At the Awichon Cultural Village in  Brgy. Upper Uma, Lubuagan, the Ambassador  and party met  Alonzo Saclag Sr., National Commission on Culture and the Arts National Living Treasure Awardee for Music and Dance.

In the tranquil village of Buscalan in Tinglayan, Veron immersed with  legendary traditional tattoo artist Apo Whang-od, Dangal ng Haraya awardee for Intangible Cultural Heritage. The Ambassador and his wife  got themselves tattooed by Whang-od.  

This  visit is seen as a catalyst for future collaborations that will bring mutual benefits to  Kalinga and the European Union. (JDP/LL-PIA CAR, Kalinga)