UPHOLDING its advocacy for charitable deeds and cultural diversity, the International Bazaar 2024 opened at the World Trade Center, Pasay City on November 3, 2024.
Pasay City Mayor Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano graced the bazaar’s opening and pledged that her office is ready to assist the organizers of the event if needed.
“We share with you the genuine desire to be of help to our people. It is also heartwarming to see effective collaboration in action. We are brought together by purpose and passion — a purpose to serve the underserved and compassion to make a difference,” Calixto-Rubiano said.
For a cause Guests and participants pose for a photo during the opening of the international bazaar. PHOTO BY KHRYSTYN ANDAYA
International Bazaar Foundation (IBF) Chairman Pamela Louise Manalo said the International Bazaar “is more than just a fundraising event; it is a bridge connecting the diplomatic and consular community with the general public as it fosters the promotion of cultural awareness and appreciation through an assortment of high quality food and merchandise from various countries, offered in this unique multi-sensory shopping experience.”
With the theme “Shop global, help local,” the bazaar will allocate its proceeds to IBF’s and partner organization Spouses of the Heads of Mission’s charity programs.
These programs help empower abused women, shelter the homeless, give care to the elderly, provide education to children, and uplift marginalized communities.
Specifically, the IBF has a scholarship program with 50 beneficiaries. These students are given funds for their tuition and other needs until they finish college. IBF also conducts medical missions, relief operations during calamities and livelihood programs.
Veronica Jimenez, public relations officer of IBF, said that the foundation wanted to have a one-stop shop to find merchandise and food all over the world, emphasizing the unique products that can only be seen in the bazaar.
“Today, we gather in celebration not only of unity and diversity, but of giving back to the community. As you embark on a delightful shopping journey, remember that you are making a difference through your purposeful purchases. Every transaction you make today will give hope to people in need,” she said.
Manalo said the venue was the biggest among its previous bazaars, gathering more than 180 booths from 39 participating embassies and 56 best local products.
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