19 June 2015 - The Philippine Embassy in Dili formally kicked off its commemorative activities for the 117th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence with a solemn flag-raising ceremony last June 06.
The commemorative event was held at the Philippine Embassy grounds and was attended by around 150 Filipinos currently based in Timor-Leste.
In line with the theme of this year’s independence celebration, Kalayaan 2015: Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot-Kamay na ng Bayan, Philippine Ambassador to Timor-Leste María Aileen H. Bugarín, in her brief remarks, urged the members of the Filipino community to contribute towards the realization of an inclusive and progressive Philippines.
Echoing the Independence Day messages of President Benigno S. Aquino III, Vice President Jejomar C. Binay, and Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario, Ambassador Bugarín also highlighted in her remarks that the Philippines’ quest for sustainable development and meaningful social transformation is “an individual and collective resolve and commitment of each and every Filipino.”
The Embassy also appealed to the Filipinos present to register for the upcoming 2016 Philippine National Elections.
Filipinos were treated to a sumptuous Filipino breakfast immediately after the flag-raising ceremony.
The event provided an excellent opportunity for the members of the Filipino community in Timor-Leste to foster greater camaraderie and solidarity. END