Belgium marked National Day in Cebu

For Ambassador of Belgium Christian Meerschman, it was a special occasion that he had to fly all the way from Manila to celebrate the National Day of Belgium with Consul of Belgium Enrique Benedicto and his wife Mrs. Helena Benedicto, and hosted a cocktail reception at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel.

At the reception line welcoming all the guests were: Ambassador Christian Meerschman, Consul Enrique Benedicto, Mrs. Helena Benedicto and First Secretary Jozef Adriaan Naudts.

In the midst of the cocktail reception, a short program ensued, and Consul Benedicto received a medal from First Secretary Jozef Adriaan Naudts…the highest award given to an individual. The award was in recognition for the 26 years of Consul Benedicto's loyal service as Consul of the Kingdom of Belgium.

Likewise, in his brief response, Consul Benedicto was truly grateful for the award, and for him, it was an honor he will always cherish and treasure in his lifetime. Actually, the award was a testimony for the enumerable projects extended to the city and other parts of Cebu from the Belgium government.

Governor Gwendolyn Garcia for her part, reminisced the day she was first invited by Consul Benedicto to speak on behalf of the Cebu province on Belgium's National Day. As a first termer and as the first woman governor of Cebu, she spoke briefly about Cebu. And that was eight years ago. "And now, I'm here again to give my last speech as governor of Cebu. Or mayber as Senator next year!" Gov. Gwen got a tremendous applause!

Mayor Michael Rama also gave his piece and he thanked the Ambassador and Consul Benedicto for the many projects that the Belgian government had extended to Cebu City, like the Pasil market. In fact, there is a street in Pasil named after Belgium.

To end the affair, a toast was led by the host. And from us, cheers to the Kingdom of Belgium!