18 June 2015 - On June 12, the Philippine Embassy in Mexico, led by Philippine Ambassador Catalino R. Dilem, Jr., held two activities to commemorate the 117th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence.
The celebration began with a floral offering ceremony in the morning of June 12 at the monument of Dr. Jose Rizal along Paseo de Reforma, Mexico City, attended Embassy officers, staff, and their dependents. Ambassador Dilem, assisted by Consul Angelo V. Amonoy and Vice-Consul Mikhal de Dios, offered a wreath of flowers at the Rizal monument. A reading of “Mi Ultimo Adios” by Mr. Alfredo Toledo then followed.
Afterwards, the Embassy hosted an afternoon reception at the Naval Officers’ Club. The event saw the attendance of over 200 guests including key officials of the Mexican government, members of the diplomatic corps, prominent leaders from the business sector, academic experts in Philippine-Mexico relations, and members of the Filipino community. Also present were veterans of the Escuadron 201 and their families.
After the singing of the national anthems of Mexico and the Philippines, Ambassador Dilem paid tribute to past and modern-day Filipino heroes in a speech that recognized their achievements toward the continued growth of the country. He recognized the members of the Filipino community for their contributions to the success of the Philippines through their hard work.
In his speech, Ambassador Dilem noted that the Philippines was the host country for APEC 2015 with the them, “Building Better Economies, Building a Better World.” He also cited the economic achievements of the country under the administration of President Benigno S. Aquino III, including the Philippines’ emergence as one of the fastest-growing economies in East Asia and the world.
Ambassador Dilem recognized the presence of his fellow Ambassadors from ASEAN countries, and highlighted the group’s collective efforts to enhance relations between Latin America and Southeast Asia through its activities to raise awareness among the citizens of Mexico about the ASEAN region and peoples.
The Ambassador underscored the especially close cultural and historical link between Mexico and the Philippines, dating back from the Galleon Trade period. He mentioned that this year was especially momentous for both countries, as it is the 450th anniversary of the Manila-Acapulco Galleon (Return Voyage) on October 8.
Ambassador Dilem informed the audience that Mexico and the Philippines have signed several bilateral agreements since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1953, including seven sister-city agreements and arrangements in the fields of tourism and travel, scientific cooperation, law enforcement, academic cooperation and culture.
The Ambassador noted that investments in the Philippines by two major Mexican firms, Coca-Cola Femsa and Cementos Mexicanos, have increased dramatically, showing Mexico’s firm confidence in the Philippines’ growth. Ambassador Dilem stated that the Philippines’ own International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) has likewise expanded its port operations in Mexico.
Ambassador Dilem also recognized the veterans and families of Mexican Air Force Squadron 201, who contributed to the defense of the Philippines during the Second World War. He conveyed the gratitude of the Filipino people to the veterans and commended them for their gallantry that helped to secure Philippine freedom and further cemented the bond between the two countries. END