The Filipino community in Jordan did the Philippines and the 40th anniversary of Philippines-Jordan bilateral relations proud after their well-applauded performance in Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts 2016 on 29 July 2016. This was the first time that the Philippines was represented in Jerash Festival which happens annually in the ancient city of Jerash, Jordan. The festival, which opened on 21 July, is one of the popular cultural events in Jordan which aims to promote the participating countries’ culture through several shows and performances.
Performers from the Filipino community in Jordan were selected from the three major Filipino umbrella organizations to showcase the Philippine folk dances. The Federation of Filipino Associations in Amman (FEFAA) performed Tinikling, the Filipino Organization-Jordan showcased the Muslim dance Kappa Malong Malong, and the United Filipino Organization performed Pandanggo sa Ilaw.
The Philippine participation kicked-off the further strengthening of the cultural ties between Philippines and Jordan since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Cooperation on 27 June 2016. Post’s participation was also part of its year-long activities to celebrate the 40 years of Philippines-Jordan bilateral relations.
The performance was well-received and applauded by the Jordanian public and the Filipino community who supported the Philippine dance groups.