Philippine Ambassador pays tribute to nation’s heroes

TDT | Manama     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

The Republic of the Philippines will celebrate the 126th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence today. The Ambassador of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Her Excellency Anne Jalando-On Louis, highlighted the significance of this occasion, marking the birth of the Filipino nation on June 12, 1898, when General Emilio Aguinaldo first unfurled the Philippine flag in Kawit, Cavite.

“We remember our nation’s heroes and the valiant men and women who fought for freedom for the Philippines, unwavering in their spirit and resilience amidst great challenges and adversity,” the Ambassador stated.

She expressed pride in the Philippines’ rich history as a sovereign state and its active role in the international community.

“We have been at the forefront, either as a lead or a proponent, in the global discourse supporting peace and security; social and gender equity; migration; climate change; and other global issues,” Ambassador Jalando-On Louis remarked.

She also emphasised the Philippines’ commitment to democratic ideals, universal human rights, justice, the rule of law, and the values of freedom and sovereignty as Asia’s earliest modern democracy and republic. Highlighting the Philippines’ strong ties with Bahrain, Ambassador Jalando-On Louis noted, “The Philippines’ longstanding relations with the Kingdom of Bahrain have been characterized by friendship, respect, and understanding.”

Since establishing formal relations in 1978, the two countries have partnered in advancing mutual interests through bilateral cooperation in various fields, including trade, culture, arts, skills training, people-to-people exchanges, migration, and employment.

The Ambassador extended gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and the government and people of Bahrain for their support and contributions, which have further strengthened bilateral ties.

Filipino community Addressing the Filipino community in Bahrain, Ambassador Jalando-On Louis wished them a meaningful and successful commemoration of Philippine Independence.

“May we take heed of the reminder that it is only in unity and solidarity as a community and as a nation that we will be able to achieve our collective goals and safeguard our interests in the true bayanihan spirit,” she urged.

She concluded her message with a heartfelt, “Maligayang Araw ng Kasarinlan! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang Pilipino! (Happy independence day! Long live the Philippines! Long live Filipinos!”