THIS YEAR, the Netherlands marks 65 years of diplomatic ties and 150 years of consular relations with the Philippines through a celebration titled “Inspire Innovation: Leading Sustainable Innovations toward a Progressive World.” The celebration will focus on promoting innovative solutions to sustain international development, capitalizing on the common interests of the Dutch and Filipinos. It will feature a series of lectures, a film festival, and a fashion design exchange programme.

“The Philippines has always been the Netherlands’ partner in pushing for sustainable international development. Our relationship has evolved into a more collaborative form where we both work together to achieve mutually beneficial economic goals. This year’s celebration is a testament to that,” said Netherlands Ambassador to the Philippines Marion Derckx.

Lectures

The celebration officially kicked off in February and continues with a lecture by visionary artist Lucas de Man in March. De Man is the founder and artistic leader of Amsterdam-based Company New Heroes, director at Het Zuidelijk Toneel, and presenter of the art television show Kunstuur. His lecture, “In Search of Europe,” highlights his travels to 17 cities in eight countries within 30 days, where he interviewed young artists and creative professionals trying to effect positive change. De Man’s lecture was held on March 15 at UP Diliman and on March 18 at UP Cebu.

Succeeding lectures will focus on topics including green design, food security, disaster risk reduction, peace and community building, and sustainable cities, and will be held in various locations in the Philippines.

Films and Fashion

A film festival featuring Dutch and Filipino films will also be held in partnership with DAKILA, an organization of artists and advocates building a movement of heroism toward social transformation. The films will highlight the two nations’ commitment to promoting human rights and sustainable innovations that will help resolve global challenges.

Recognizing that creativity can inspire innovation, an exchange programme for Dutch and Filipino fashion students will also take place in partnership with Slim’s Fashion and Art School. The students will undergo collaborative training to produce a collection that combines Dutch and Filipino artistry by weaving unique fabrics and techniques from both countries. Their creations will be featured in a grand culminating fashion show in October.

The celebration will set the stage for deeper, more meaningful collaboration between the Philippines and the Netherlands through creative and innovative means. “We are very excited to travel the Philippines and share this meaningful celebration with every Filipino. We believe that by inspiring innovations, we are able to do our part in promoting a progressive world,” Derckx shared.

For more information on the celebration, visit philippines.nlembassy.org and www.facebook.com/DutchEmbassyPhilippines, or follow @NLinPhilippines on Twitter. – Press Release

*Featured photo courtesy of National Geographic. The Netherlands is known for its beautiful tulip fields across the country.