Inaugural Premios Tanglaw commemorates 77th anniversary of Philippines-Spain diplomatic relations

MANILA, Philippines — The Embassy of the Philippines in Madrid, Spain hosted the inaugural ceremony of the Premios Tanglaw on October 10 led by Ambassador Philippe Lhuillier to commemorate the 77th anniversary of Philippines-Spain diplomatic relations. 

Remarking on the bilateral relations between the two countries, the ambassador stated, “This evolving relationship would not have reached its present heights without the tireless efforts of remarkable individuals and institutions—visionaries and advocates who have dedicated their lives to building bridges between our cultures. Today, we honor those who have worked relentlessly ensuring the light of mutual respect and understanding continues to shine brightly.”

“The awards we bestow represent a moment of celebration and serve as a source of inspiration for all who strive to bring us closer,” Ambassador Lhuillier further stated.

The Premios Tanglaw is a distinguished award presented by the Philippine Embassy in Spain to honor individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to fostering solidarity and cooperation between the Philippines and Spain.

Named after the Filipino word tanglaw, meaning “guiding light,” the award celebrates those who serve as luminaries of unity and progress. Inspired by Juan Luna's iconic painting, it symbolizes the illumination of the path toward a brighter future, with both nations equally contributing to their shared aspirations.

This year’s inaugural Premio Tanglaw marks the beginning of the historic milestone leading up to the 80th anniversary of Philippine-Spain bilateral relations in 2027.

This year’s Tanglaw awardees were the late senator Edgardo Angara; Jorge Manuel Domecq Fernández de Bobadilla; Isabel Preysler; Rafael Rodríguez-Ponga; Fernando Zóbel; Alexandra Eala; María Dolores Elizalde; Antonio Molina; Instituto Cervantes; National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP); Ministerio de Educación, Formación Profesional y Deportes; Aboitiz and Company; CASA ASIA; Bodegas Fundador and Emperador Properties; ACCIONA; Jollibee Madrid and Agencia Española de Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo (AECID).

Among those who attended were Tamara Isabel