KUALA LUMPUR, 1 JUL – Malaysia and the Philippines have shared a profound connection – rooted in history, culture and a commitment to peace and prosperity – the past six decades.
The Philippines ambassador to Malaysia, Maria Angela A. Ponce noted that looking ahead, she hoped to further strengthen the bilateral collaboration across diverse fields, promote inclusive growth and sustainable development for all.
“As we navigate through the complex geopolitical realities of our region and the world, the Philippines reaffirms its commitment to peace and Asean’s centrality,” she said in her address at the ‘126th Philippine Independence Day 2024’ reception at the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur City Centre.
Guest-of-honour was Malaysian Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
Present were Malaysian National Security Council director-general Raja Datuk Nuhirwan Zainal Abidin, ambassadors, high-commissioners and members of the Military Attache Corps comprising defence attaches and advisors.
Maria Angela highlighted how her country commemorated the Independence Day celebrations under the theme ‘Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan’ (Freedom, Future, History).
“We celebrate not only the rich tapestry of our nation’s history and culture, but also the enduring connections we have built with our friends and neighbors, particularly Malaysia.
“The reception is also part of our year-long celebration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Malaysia,” Maria Angela said.
The event saw the screening of a brief video on Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr’s remarks at the recently held Shangri-la Dialogue – Asia’s premier defence summit – in Singapore.
Marcos, son of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr, commented how the Philippines had done in the past, by embracing its role in the region and around the world with a sense of purpose.
He expressed the Philippines’ determination to be a force for the good, a force for peace, a champion of regional and global unity, and a staunch defender of the rules-based international order.
The reception also witnessed a vibrant and culturally enriching experience, featuring traditional Filipino performances, culinary delights and exhibitions showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of the Philippines.
History has it that since the days of freedom fighter Jose Rizal, the Araw ng Kalayaan (Day of Freedom) became a national holiday in the Philippines, observed annually on June 12 commemorating the declaration of Philippine independence from Spain in 1898.
At the outbreak of the Spanish-American War in 1898, Commodore George Dewey sailed from Hong Kong to Manila Bay leading the United States Navy’s Asiatic Squadron.
On May 1, 1898, Dewey defeated the Spanish in the ‘Battle of Manila Bay’, which effectively put the US in control of the Spanish colonial government.
Later, revolutionary leader Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence for the Philippines on June 12, 1898. – airtimes.my
#AirTimes #Malaysia #Filipina #Semasa
