PM lays on prime fruit feast

Philippines leader samples local durian

Philippine President Gloria Arroyo and her husband Jose Arroyo were treated to a selection of Thai durian on Tuesday night, compliments of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

A selection of  Mon Thong, Chanee, and Karn Yao durian were peeled for the president and her delegation to taste during a party that was held at the Oriental Hotel.

President Arroyo spent nearly an hour outdoors enjoying different kinds of durian, chatting with members of the delegation until close to midnight.

Prime Minister Thaksin also provided a big basket of mangosteen, as well as Yaowarat's best mini mooncakes.

Mrs. Arroyo yesterday met the local Filipino community before visitnig Chulalongkorn University to receive an honorary doctorate in political science.

She met leading Thai businesmen inlcuding Bangkok Bank president and Thai Bankers Association president Chartsiri Sophonpanich.

The Federation of Thai Industry, the Board of Trade of Thailnad and the Thai Bankers Association later hosted a luncheon in her honour.

Mrs. Arroyo was also granted an audience by Their Majesties the King and Queen at Klai Kang Won Palace.

She returned to the Philippines last night.