Welcome Banquet at Mabuhay Temple, Passing On Education and Dharma Affinities

Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple
November 21, 2025

On November 12, Venerable Most Hsin Bao, Abbot of Fo Guang Shan, arrived at Mabuhay Temple in the Philippines. That evening, nearly 120 Fo Guang members gathered for a welcome banquet to express their gratitude for his compassionate visit and for bringing the Dharma across the seas.

The banquet began with a respectful invitation led by Venerable Most Hsin Bao, followed by a joyful meal featuring a variety of Chinese and Western dishes. Under the guidance of the monastics, everyone lined up in an orderly manner, creating a warm atmosphere reminiscent of a family gathering.

In her welcoming remarks, Li Shao Zhu, Chief Supervisor of BLIA Philippines, thanked Venerable Most Hsin Bao for supporting the week’s major events, including the inauguration of Guang Ming Chan Monastery, the activation ceremony for Guang Ming University’s affiliated school, the Bodhi family blessing, the Three Refuges and Five Precepts ceremony, and the commendation of schools in Sagay City’s “Three Acts of Goodness Campus” program.

During the program, young BLIA member Li Yen-Da served as master of ceremonies for the first time, reflecting the promising strength of the second generation. The Mabuhay Temple Choir offered a heartfelt musical tribute to Fo Guang Shan founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, whose teachings in education, music, and the arts have already taken root in the Philippines.

In his remarks, Venerable Most Hsin Bao praised the continuous development of Fo Guang Shan’s educational efforts in the Philippines. With Guang Ming University established and an affiliated primary and secondary school soon to open, he affirmed that these achievements are the result of Venerable Yung Guang’s leadership and the joint efforts of the Fo Guang community. He encouraged everyone to uphold the Four Great Vows and advance toward the fulfillment of Bodhi.