By Naveed Miraj and Shahid Qureshi
ISLAMABAD: The Embassy of the Philippines celebrated its National Day with traditional dances and singing, marking the 126th anniversary of the Philippines’ independence. Ambassador Maria Agnes M. Cervantes emphasized the importance of this occasion, highlighting the bravery, resilience, and unwavering spirit of the forefathers who fought for the nation’s freedom.
Ambassador Cervantes remarked on the significance of the event, stating, “This special event allows us to honor the bravery, resilience, and unwavering spirit of our forefathers, who fought for the freedom we hold dear today.”
The celebration underscored the Philippines’ progress and unity as a nation since June 12, 1898, when the country declared its independence, initiating a new era of self-determination. This historic day serves as a testament to the struggle for freedom and justice, reminding everyone of the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage and values.
The theme of this year’s celebration, “Freedom, Future, and History,” encapsulated the essence of the festivities. According to Ambassador Cervantes, these words reflect the hard-earned liberty, the determination to build a prosperous nation, and the country’s rich past. She highlighted the remarkable resilience and courage the Filipino people have shown throughout history, from the colonial era to the present.
“Our fight for freedom demonstrated our unwavering spirit and desire for self-determination,” she noted while adding that despite many challenges, we have always emerged stronger, remaining committed to justice.
The ambassador also highlighted the Philippines’ continued commitment to democracy, human rights, and social justice, stressing the importance of innovation, ingenuity, and perseverance in nation-building.
In times of global challenges, the Philippines contributes positively to the world, drawing on its rich cultural heritage and historical lessons. Ambassador Cervantes expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality of Pakistan, marking the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Pakistan relations and emphasizing the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
The ambassador highlighted that over the past seven and a half decades, the two countries have built strong diplomatic ties grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and commitment to bilateral cooperation and this continued collaboration can build brighter future for both the countries.
