Acapulco, Mexico, 12 October 2024 - A wreath-laying ceremony held at the Mexico-Philippines Plaza celebrated the legacy of the Manila Galleon, a symbol of commerce and cultural diversity that marked the port for more than two centuries.
Mr. Noe Peralta Herrera, Secretary of Tourism in Acapulco, led the ceremony in representation of the Mayor of the Port of Acapulco, Lic. Abelina Lopez Rodriguez. Honorary Consul of the Philippines, Dr. Mario de la O Almazan represented the Government of the Philippines. Members of the Committee of ´´Friends of the Manila-Acapulco Galleon´´ also witnessed the event.
The Manila Galleon not only transported valuable goods such as silk, spices and porcelain between Asia and America, but was a true bridge between civilizations, transforming Acapulco into an epicenter of cultural exchange. The voyages of these imposing ships left a deep mark on the local culture, from gastronomy to the traditions that today define the identity of the port.
During the event, the importance of remembering the value and vision of those navigators and merchants who crossed the oceans to forge new horizons was highlighted.
Acapulco, more than a port, was the stage where stories and dreams met, connecting two continents and creating ties that still endure. Today, in the midst of the nearshoring era, the legacy of the Manila Galleon gains relevance.
The trade routes that once placed Acapulco on the world map are re-emerging, reaffirming its role as a strategic point in global trade.
The tribute not only looks to the past, but inspires us to continue building bridges between cultures and exploring new opportunities, with the same adventurous spirit that guided the sailors of yesteryear. The Manila Galleon remains a symbol of our history and a beacon to the future. END
