ISLAMABAD: The Philippines Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr Emmanuel R Fernandez, on the occasion of the 127th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence has reaffirmed commitment to strengthen relations between the two countries.

Marking the historic day of June 12, 1898, when Filipinos declared their right to self-determination, Ambassador Fernandez reflected on the enduring values that continued to shape the Philippines’ national identity. This year’s Independence Day theme, “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History), was described by the envoy as a powerful expression of the country’s journey from colonialism to sovereignty.

“Freedom is our foundation. The future is our shared responsibility. And history is the thread that ties us all together,” he noted in his message.

Ambassador Fernandez highlighted the over seven decades of friendly relations between the Philippines and Pakistan, underlining cooperation in areas such as trade, education, disaster response, and counterterrorism. He praised the resilience and solidarity shown by both nations in times of global and regional change.

“Both our peoples have stood side by side in international fora and supported one another in shared goals,” he said, emphasising the mutual understanding rooted in shared experiences of colonial struggle and aspirations for sovereign progress.

Reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening diplomatic and people-to-people ties, the ambassador informed his guests, ambassadors, charge de affairs and local guests, the importance of nurturing friendships that upheld the ideals of freedom and sovereignty.

“I wish the people of Pakistan continued peace, prosperity, and progress,” he concluded, signing off with a message of solidarity.

The real stars of the evening were the officers and staff, and members of their families, who performed a costume walk, as they presented dresses drawn from the Philippines’ diverse and colourful textile tradition, bearing with them beauty, history, and craftsmanship of their national dress.

At the centre of this showcase were two icons of Philippino formal wear, the terno for women and the barong tagalog for men.

After the presentation, guests were treated to Pakistani and Philippino delicacies.

Published in Dawn, June 15th, 2025