Philippine Consulate Joins “Nightlife: Mabuhay” at the California Academy of Sciences Celebrating Filipino Culture and Marine Biodiversity
Guests explore the California Academy of Sciences’ Philippine Coral Reef exhibit during “NightLife: Mabuhay,” showcasing marine species and coral ecosystems inspired by the Philippines’ rich biodiversity. (San Francisco PCG photo)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco joined “NightLife: Mabuhay” at the California Academy of Sciences on 28 May 2026, an evening celebration highlighting Filipino culture, community, music, and the Philippines’ rich marine biodiversity.
Organized by the California Academy of Sciences, the event gathered members of the Filipino American community, cultural advocates, small business owners, Academy supporters, and guests from across the Bay Area.
The Philippine Consulate and the Philippine Department of Tourism – San Francisco (PDOT-SF) participated through a Philippine booth featuring tourism materials, and information on consular services.
Left: Representatives from the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco and the Philippine Department of Tourism – San Francisco engage guests at the Philippine booth. Right: Performers and guests participate in a Kulintang cultural performance. (San Francisco PCG photos)
Cultural performances and community showcases throughout the Academy highlighted the vibrancy and diversity of Filipino American culture through music, dance, culinary offerings, visual arts, and heritage presentations.
During the short program with the Academy’s Philippine Coral Reef exhibit as the backdrop, Dr. Terry Gosliner highlighted the Academy’s longstanding scientific research and conservation engagement in the Philippines, undertaken in partnership with academic institutions, non-government organizations, local communities, and Philippine government partners.
In his welcome remarks, Consul General Arnel G. Talisayon thanked the California Academy of Sciences for organizing the event and for its continued efforts in promoting appreciation for Philippine biodiversity and marine conservation.
“The Philippines is not only rich in culture and talent, but is also one of the world’s great centers of biodiversity and environmental significance,” the Consul General said. He also expressed hope that the coral reef exhibit would inspire guests to develop a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems and foster a stronger commitment to the conservation and sustainable stewardship of marine resources. The event underscored the importance of cultural and educational exchanges in strengthening people-to-people ties between the Philippines and the United States, particularly as both countries commemorate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. END
Dr. Terry Gosliner of the California Academy of Sciences presents the Academy’s Philippine Coral Reef exhibit to guests during “NightLife: Mabuhay.” (San Francisco PCG photo)
Dr. Terry Gosliner and Consul General Arnel G. Talisayon exchange views at the Philippine Coral Reef exhibit. (San Francisco PCG photo)
Officials from the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco engage members of the Filipino American community and cultural advocates at The Hinabi Project pop-up exhibit during the event.
(San Francisco PCG photo)