28 June 2014 – The Philippine Embassy in Mexico hosted the commemoration of the 116th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence with the Filipino community at the Embassy Chancery on June 21.

A highlight of the program was the reading of the messages of the President, the Vice President and the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.  In his opening remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Mexico Catalino Dilem, Jr. updated the members of the Filipino community on the good news in the Philippine economy and cited the valuable contributions of the Filipinos abroad in the economic progress of the country.

Ambassor Dilem also recognized the presence of Mr. Manuel Baldemor whom he introduced   as a well-known Filipino artist whose artworks are displayed in galleries and important institutions in the world.  Some of his paintings are currently exhibited at Centro Cultural Ollin Yolitzli in Mexico City.

The Ambassador mentioned that Mr. Baldemor will be coming back in October for another exhibit which will be held at the Museo Fuerte San Diego in Acapulco as part of the Embassy’s activities to celebrate Galleon Day.

On the same occasion Mr. Baldemor donated three paintings to the Embassy depicting Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.  In his speech, he said that he was glad that his works are now part of the Embassy, while explaining to the audience the meaning of his paintings. 

The Embassy likewise took the opportunity to encourage the members of the Filipino community to register and exercise their right of suffrage in the 2016 elections.  Inspired by this message, some Filipinos registered on that day.

Filipino community members were also asked to vote for Vigan as one of the 7 Wonders of the World.  They were informed of the benefits to the country once Vigan would be selected.

There were also entertainment of songs and interpretative dance from the members of the Filipino community and Embassy personnel.

A salu-salo of Filipino dishes concluded the celebration.END