Swiss National Day @ The Pen

MANILA, Philippines - August 1st marks the moment back in 1291, when the Swiss Confederation was founded by representatives of three cantons who swore eternal loyalty to one another, promising mutual help and assistance. For the people of Switzerland, the celebration of August 1st means fireworks, flying the Swiss flag on their balconies, family barbecues in the garden and official speeches to commemorate the event. In the Philippines, it is the occasion for the Ambassador of Switzerland Ivo Sieber and his wife Gracita Tolentino Sieber to invite Philippine government representatives, the diplomatic and consular corps, members of the Swiss and Philippine business community to join them in the Swiss National Day reception which was honored by the presence of Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario. PHOTOS BY: MIKE AMOROSO