Memphis names Philippines ‘honored country’

Good news. The Philippines has been named the “honored country” by Memphis—the largest city in the US southeastern state of Tennessee—in its 2012 Memphis in May International Festival (MIMIF), the US Embassy in Manila announced yesterday.

In a report posted on its website, the embassy quoted Philippine Ambassador to Washington Jose Cuisia Jr. as having said “the Philippine government and the Filipino people are truly humbled by the privilege bestowed upon the Philippines as the honored country for the 2012 MIMIF, showcasing the best of Philippine culture, cuisine, performances, business practices and Filipino hospitality.”

“This festival will clearly demonstrate that ‘it’s more fun in the Philippines,’” Cuisia said, quoting the new Philippine slogan for promoting tourism.

Aside from building international ties and understanding, the MIMIF also “fosters civic pride and promotes awareness of Memphis heritage,” the  US Embassy said.

This week, at least 30 community and business leaders from Memphis are visiting the Philippines to “explore areas for potential trade and investment,” the embassy said.

“The delegation will be joined by their families and friends and other Memphis cultural enthusiasts,” the embassy said.

In a statement, Holt said he was “thrilled to be leading this trip…I look forward to furthering our relationships with individuals and interests in the Philippines.”

Known as the “River City,” Memphis was founded in 1819. It is the 20th largest city in the United States.

Originally posted at 02:21 pm | Thursday, March 22,  2012