BRAN RELUAO, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Republicasia and the youngest Special Envoy of the Republic of the Philippines to Thailand, welcomed the Thai delegates to Intramuros on Saturday, July 12.
The visit served as a cultural showcase led by Reluao, offering Thai delegates a glimpse into the rich heritage and traditions of the Philippines.
Through curated experiences set in the historic walled city of Intramuros, the event highlighted the country’s vibrant arts, cuisine, and history— strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations.
Leading the Thai delegation was Ambassador Makawadee Sumitmor, the official representative of Thailand to the Philippines.
She was joined by Mr. Rangsant Srimangkorn, Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission; Group Captain Nirut Rattanajanya, Defense and Air Attaché; and Captain Warintorn Kumhong, Assistant Defense and Naval Attaché.
Other members of the delegation included Mr. Anak Srikum, Minister Counsellor; Ms. Sutinee Vathana, Minister Counsellor for Commercial Affairs; Mrs. Narttaporn Nitimontree, Minister Counsellor and Consul; and Mrs. Yupawan Premchit Taniguchi, Counsellor for Economics.
Also present were Mr. Sarun Junsiri, Second Secretary for Protocol and Information, and Ms. Siwaporn Puddwang, Second Secretary for Finance.
Representing the Philippines along with Reluao were Ahtisa Manalo, Miss Universe Philippines 2025, and Kitt Cortez, Mister Pilipinas Eco International 2026, who brought a sense of cultural pride and youthful energy to the occasion.
The visit began with a tour of the Republicasia office, located inside the ECJ Building in Intramuros. A replica of the old “Casa Nueva” that once served as the Augustinian Provincial House, the ECJ Building stands as a quiet witness to Manila’s layered past.
Destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt in the 1980s, it now houses modern institutions while preserving the character of old Manila.
As the Thai delegates explored the office, they were introduced to Republicasia and its role as a digital media platform for the younger generation.
After the office tour, the Thai delegates were treated to a traditional Pinoy merienda—a flavorful spread of Filipino favorites that showcased the country’s rich culinary heritage.
The menu featured crowd-pleasers like lumpiang ubod money bags, grilled chicken inasal skewers, and colorful native kakanin such as kutsinta and pichi-pichi.
A live halo-halo station with over a dozen local ingredients delighted guests, while warm cups of salabat and refreshing lemongrass tea capped off the afternoon with a comforting touch.
The delegates continued their cultural immersion with a guided tour of Intramuros, Manila’s historic walled city.
A tranvia—a replica of the old electric streetcars that once ran through Manila in the early 1900s—was provided for the guests, offering a nostalgic ride through cobblestone streets and colonial-era architecture.
Some delegates also experienced riding a kalesa, a traditional horse-drawn carriage that remains an iconic symbol of old Manila charm.
The tour included a stop at Jones Bridge, a neoclassical structure that spans a portion of the Pasig River. The delegates had the chance to stroll through a lively bazaar and observe the local atmosphere.
The tour continued to Fort Santiago, a 16th-century citadel located within the walls of Intramuros. Once a Spanish military stronghold, it later served as a prison—most notably holding Dr. José Rizal before his execution.
The delegates explored its historic gates and gardens, caught a glimpse of the dungeon entrance, and gained insight into the Philippines’ colonial past and the legacy of its national hero.
The final stop was The Bayleaf Hotel, where rooms were formally turned over to the Thai delegates. The hotel combines sleek modern design with touches of Spanish colonial architecture.
The day-long cultural visit offered more than just a tour of historical landmarks—it fostered deeper understanding and friendship between the Philippines and Thailand. It stood as a testament to the power of diplomacy and cultural exchange in strengthening regional ties.
