GOVPH

27 June 2014 - A diplomatic reception celebrating the 116^th  Anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence was hosted by Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Virginia H. Benavidez on June 19 at Old St. Paul’s, the historic and iconic landmark in Wellington.  It was attended by nearly 400 guests from the diplomatic corps, New Zealand Government, business sector, academe, churches, various organizations and associations, members of the Filipino community and other distinguished personalities.

Minister for Courts Chester Borrows was the guest of honor. In his speech, Minister Borrows stated that the relationship of New Zealand and the Philippines “is warm and long-standing” and “has witnessed a significant increase in engagement over the last several years”.  He pointed out that “with interpersonal links, an important trade relationship and growing education, aviation, and labour links, there’s no doubt that the relationship holds much potential for growth”. 

Minister Borrows also noted that in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda  in November of  2013, “the hearts of New Zealanders from all walks of life went out to the people of the Philippines” and “New Zealand was one of the many countries to offer help – in the form of a C-130 Hercules to help airlift critical supplies to devastated and isolated regions” with a “pledge of just over $5 million dollars to the relief effort – a scale of New Zealand response usually seen only in the South Pacific”. 

He expressed New Zealand’s hope to make an effective contribution beyond relief into the recovery phase.  Minister Borrows pointed out that the two countries’ “trade relationship has long been an important cornerstone for New Zealand –Philippine relations” and “has potential to expand beyond a traditional focus on agricultural exports”.  Minister Borrows emphasized that people-to-people “links are at the heart of our relationship” and that “New Zealand values these ties with Filipino migrants, who are making an important contribution in sectors with skills shortages, including in the dairy industry and the Christchurch rebuild.” He mentioned that the recent visit of Minister of Trade Tim Groser to the Philippines with a business delegation of over 20 New Zealand businesses is proof that New Zealand is keen to meet the Philippines’ needs with its world class products and expertise. 

Minister Burrows observed that it is not only bilateral connections which are strong but also New Zealand’s important ties to the Philippines through our linkages to the ASEAN region.  He noted that the ASEAN “region is playing an increasingly important role in determining New Zealand’s economic fortunes, with ASEAN recently overtaking the EU as the largest trading bloc with which New Zealand does business” and that “the launch of the NZ Inc ASEAN Strategy last year in July by the Prime Minister reflects the government’s acknowledgement of the importance of this region to New Zealand’s future”.  In recognition of New Zealand’s and the Philippines’ longstanding and growing friendship, Minister Borrows proposed a toast to President Benigno S. Aquino III, and to the Government, the representatives, and the people of the Philippines.

For her part, Ambassador Benavidez thanked Minister Borrows for gracing the celebration, and reflected on the evolution of the history of the Filipino people with this year's Independence Day theme “Following the Footsteps of Great Filipinos Toward Permanent and Widespread Change,” highlighted the Philippines’ developing status as one of Asia’s newest economic success stories and fast growing market stars, and the current all-time high of the

state of Philippines-New Zealand relations following the successful and productive exchange of high-level visits. As the Philippines rises above the terrible tragedy of Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda, Ambassador Benavidez reiterated “our endless gratitude to the Government and People of New Zealand and our partner countries, donor agencies, the Filipino communities, non-government and international organizations for the unprecedented groundswell of generosity, support and assistance  and continuing partnership in implementing collaborative and innovative programmes to effectively proceed with the rebuilding and reconstruction phase”.

She also emphasized that New Zealand is a much valued dialogue partner in ASEAN and the contribution of the 40,000-strong Filipino community to New Zealand’s development.  Stating that the future of New Zealand and the Philipines are woven together, Ambassador Benavidez made a toast to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Government and People of New Zealand and the close ties and friendship between the Philippines and New Zealand.

A special cultural performance for this year’s Independence Day celebration was presented by the Philippine Baranggay Folk Dance Troupe (PBFDT), the longest running folk dance troupe in the Philippines.  The troupe performed a heart-warming and nostalgic repertoire of Philippine cultural dances, including dances from the Paligo/Banga, Sayap, La Simpatika, Kumintang, Tahing Baila, Malong, Pandagngo sa Ilaw, Subli, Binasuan, Palo-palo, Salakot/Obando and Tinikling. For the first time, the PBFDT was brought to New Zealand by the Philippine Embassy in cooperation with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and New Zealand Filifest Cultural Group Inc. 

The special performances were much appreciated by the guests, commenting that the celebration was truly an evening to remember and one to be proud of – a heartwarming tribute to nationhood, an excellent testimony to the enduring friendship and partnership between the Philippines and New Zealand and an amazing showcase of Filipino culture, talent and artistry. END