Slovenia celebrates Statehood Day in Manila with first-ever resident embassy reception and National Volleyball Team
Whilst the resident embassy officially opened its doors in May 2024 and celebrated its solemn opening ceremony with Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon in March 2025, the gathering on 11 September 2025 officially marked the very first Statehood Day reception organised by Slovenia's resident diplomatic mission in the Philippines.
The Slovenian National Voleyball Team and the Embassy staff celebrate the Slovenian National Day | Author Embassy of Slovenia in Manila
A Celebration of Diplomacy and the Unifying Power of Sport
In her address, Ambassador of Slovenia in Manila Dr Smiljana Knez, alongside the Philippine Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs Charles José, welcomed high-ranking government officials, academic partners, business sponsors and members of the diplomatic corps.
A central theme of the evening was the unifying power of sport. Alongside Slovenia's rich history, economic and technical achievements, culture and tourism, guests were introduced to the nation's remarkable sporting triumphs. The highlight of the evening was the presence of the Slovenian Men’s National Volleyball Team (Odbojkarska zveza Slovenije). The team, currently in Manila for the prestigious FIVB Men's World Championship 2025, joined the celebration as guests of honour, and the Embassy took the opportunity to wish them the absolute best of luck in the tournament.
Heartfelt Thanks to Our Partners
The evening was filled with vibrant connections and beautiful music, courtesy of a stunning performance by the FEU University Chorale.
The Embassy of Slovenia extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who made this landmark evening possible, including Undersecretary Charles José from the Department of Foreign Affairs and our partners at the Department of Foreign Affairs and other government departments, the diplomatic community and our Honorary Consul Felix Ang. We also warmly thank our Slovenian and Filipino business partners, sponsors, academia and the media.
This historic first reception marks a bright new chapter in the strengthening friendship and cooperation between Slovenia and the Philippines. Go Team Slovenia!