ISLAMABAD: The Embassy of the Philippines celebrated the National Day with pride and joy, featuring traditional dances and singing. The event marked the 126th anniversary of the Philippines’ independence - a significant milestone in the nation’s history.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador of the Philippines Maria Agnes M. Cervantes emphasised the importance of the occasion.

“This special event allows us to honour the bravery, resilience and unwavering spirit of our forefathers, who fought for the freedom we hold dear today,” she said.

The celebration highlighted the Philippines’ progress and unity as a nation. On June 12, 1898, the Philippines declared its independence, ushering in a new era of self-determination. This day stood as a testament to the struggle for freedom and justice, serving as a reminder of the country’s rich history, cultural heritage and values.

The theme of this year’s celebration was ‘Freedom, Future, and History’.

Ambassador Cervantes explained that these three words captured the essence of the festivities.

“Freedom signifies the hard-earned liberty our ancestors achieved for us. The future represents our determination to build a prosperous nation, and history reflects our rich past,” she added.

She noted the remarkable resilience and courage the Filipino people had shown throughout history, from the colonial era to the present.

“Our fight for freedom demonstrated our unwavering spirit and desire for self-determination. Despite many challenges, we have always emerged stronger, remaining committed to justice. We are reminded of our responsibilities as guardians of the freedom our ancestors fought for. It is our duty to preserve this legacy by promoting unity, fostering peace and working for the common good,” Ms Cervantes added.

The ambassador highlighted the Philippines’ continued commitment to democracy, human rights and social justice.

She emphasised that “freedom, future and history” should constantly remind of the ongoing task of nation-building, which required innovation, ingenuity and perseverance.

In times of global challenges, Ambassador Cervantes said the Philippines continued to contribute positively to the world, drawing on its rich cultural heritage and historical lessons.

“By doing so, we honour our past, enrich our present, and pave the way for a brighter future,” she added.

Ms Cervantes expressed gratitude for the warm and hospitable environment provided by the host country, Pakistan. This year also marked the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Pakistan relations, highlighting the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

“Over the past seven and a half decades, our countries have built strong diplomatic ties grounded in mutual respect, shared values and commitment to bilateral cooperation. This enduring partnership has fostered economic collaboration, cultural exchange and mutual support for the international order,” the envoy said.

She extended her embassy’s gratitude to the people of Pakistan for their friendship and support, looking forward to many more years of fruitful collaboration and solidarity.

“This friendship is crucial in realising that building a brighter future is a collective responsibility. Together with the international community, the Philippines believe in peace in the world. We ensure that the legacy of the past inspires our future,” Ambassador Cervantes said.

Published in Dawn, June 13th, 2024