“Sunshine is overrated” –Peter Kompalla
On the weekend of 18-19 February 2017, Mabuhay Germany™ was once again held by the German Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GPCCI) with the theme “In Motion”.
Mabuhay Germany™ is the flagship event of the Chamber as it continues to showcase German culture, cuisines, and connections. The event elevates the bilateral relations of the two countries through the promotion of its existing business community.
Now on its 8th year, Mabuhay Germany™ was participated by 40 exhibitors, 4 job fair companies, 7 food and beverage concessionaires, 3 marketing sponsors and 2 program sponsors. A replica of the Brandenburg Gate was placed at 7th avenue, which was made out to be a small “Autobahn”. The main tent was set up similarly as a famous “Biergarten” with long tables and benches.
The event was opened by GPCCI President Dr. Bodo Goerlich as he gave an overview of what the Chamber is and its role in the business community. German Ambassador Dr. Gordon Kricke also addressed the guests present and highlighted the strengthening of the German-Philippine connection. The gentlemen were then joined by EU Ambassador Franz Jessen and Department of Labor and Employment Undersecretary Claro Arellano as Dr. Goerlich led the ceremonial toast.
Although the first day experienced a downpour of rain for a few hours, guests remained enthusiastic to participate at each booth’s activity and of course with the exchange of information. Visitors of the trade fair were given a “Reisepass” (passport) that needed to be stamped by each booth they visited which in turn gives them a chance to participate in the raffle as long as they complete all the company stamps.
Germans, innovative as they are, sought ways to keep themselves occupied through business networking, and enjoying the German cuisines around the main tent. The weather, in fact, helped friends and colleagues to catch up with each other.
Once the skies have cleared, event partner, German Embassy, together with the Goethe Institut facilitated an open forum on opportunities for Philippine nurses in Germany. The audience was attended by nurses aspiring to work in Germany and representatives who were assisting nurses.
Event title sponsor Volkswagen conducted a Trivia Quiz wherein all guests were welcome to join for a chance to win prizes. It was then followed by G Data AV Lab Inc.’s presentation on the Dangers of Living in the Digital World where the speaker focused on topics such as what users have to be careful for when signing into public domains.
The evening was capped off by the event similar to the famous Oktoberfest through the Chamber’s “Tanznacht” (dance night). Guests enjoyed music courtesy of the Midlife Crisis Band’s new wave genre as well as DJ Mia’s house music.
On the second day, a customary Sunday mass was celebrated by Father Eilers. This was then followed by the Frühschoppen with German Club’s Welfare Committee performance and music from the Red Light Jazz Band by Mike Guevarra, where guests enjoyed light music in the morning.
The main tent was abuzz with excitement in the afternoon as the famous German Chamber Bingo was done by Mr. Koh. The Table Soccer Tournament continued this enthusiasm as teams of two were competitively playing for this year’s championship place. The team of Bayer Philippines placed first, and were back-to-back Champions from the previous Mabuhay Germany™, followed by the German Club team in 2nd place.
GPCCI Executive Director Peter Kompalla took to the stage to deliver his closing remarks and words of acknowledgement to those who have made the event possible—the sponsors, the exhibitors, the event partners, the participants, and the whole GPCCI Team.
The evening continued on as the crowd was serenaded by an acoustic performance of Ramonne Rodriguez. And, true to tradition, Germans and Filipinos got together for a classic—and impromptu—karaoke night.
Mabuhay Germany™ continues to show that the bilateral relations of both countries have evolved from the culture differences, have gone far and beyond business connections, and ultimately, have broken barriers to make the world even closer together.