Imagine a trade show where there are fist fights.
Those involved are not only four people, but several, in at least two groups. They fight for dominion, not only by brute strength but by ancient tactics. Easily, it can be construed as a gang war.
But hold your punches. The “combat” wasn’t really “street fighting,” but an exhibition of Muay Thai, Thailand’s national sport and cultural martial art.
Held at the SMX Convention Center near the Mall of Asia in Pasay City on March 2-5, 2017, Thailand Week held such exhibitions daily, in the entire duration of the trade fair.
To the delight of the audience, they saw how actual Muay Thai fighters “gracefully” did it, especially when the fighters seemed to “fly” during their demonstration.
My daughter, Bethany, who is a Muay Thai enthusiast, was especially intent at capturing on camera, the swift moves and tough strikes, which applied punches, kicks, elbows and knees. Such combat style use the so-called “eight points of contact”, as opposed to “two points” in boxing and “four points” in other “more regulated combat sports”.
What made the exhibition more interesting was that two female fighters were among those who fought, skill for skill, muscle to muscle, along with the male participants.
And they showed real courage, stamina and skill in putting down the supposed enemy.
My kids, who are themselves into Tae Kwondo, remained glued to watching the entire breath-taking stint.
They went on stage for a photo opportunity with the Muay Thai fighters after the exhibition and couldn’t resist holding up their fists to pretend they were “among such skilled martial artists.”
Thailand Week also featured Thai cooking demonstrations. Among the food showcase were Thai BBQ and a Taste of Issan Thai.
As expected, there were the food section, where the renown Nai Cha (milk tea) in different flavors and presentations, were offered (with lots of free taste!), chips and other delectable Thai products.
There were also Thai jewelries, which were a natural come on to some visitors and of course, several booths showcasing the latest in fashion clothes in Thailand.
There were also perfumes carrying scents truly exclusive to those that reflect the sense of preference and scents of the Thai people.
The opening of Thailand Week 2017 was graced by Ms. Khankhanit Amphuprapa, Director of Thai Trade Center Manila, Department of International Trade Promotion.
With the theme Discover Excellence, Trade with Thailand, Ms. Amphuprapa said for the past nine years, Thailand has successfully attained its goals in maintaining strong trade and business relationship with the Philippines.
She noted that so far, total trade between Thailand and Philippines amounted to US$ 9 billion in 2016.
“We shall remain faithful to our commitment in expanding and introducing the latest and world class Thai products for the Philippine market. Likewise, the increase of Thai investments and business opportunities with Philippine companies as well as developing potential entrepreneurs through our promotion of one-on-one business matching,” the Director said.
Ms. Amphuprapa assured that Thailand will continue holding the trade show, with the continued patronage and support of the Filipino people.
