26 June 2015 - In line with the 117th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the United Nations hosted a National Day reception attended by diplomats from various Permanent Missions in New York.
In her remarks, Ambassador Lourdes O. Yparraguirre, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, highlighted the role the international community played in helping the Philippines achieve its freedom.
“We join you, as you join us, in addressing our current developmental challenges so that we can contribute to building a global community where there is respect for one another, and where we all recognize that our shared peace and prosperity depend on our ability as friends to work with one another,” Ambassador Yparraguirre said.
The reception also featured Filipino artists which performed traditional Filipino love songs or “kundiman”.
Ms. Joy Tamayo, coloratura soprano, soloist and a member of the Philippine-American Choral project, performed “Ano Kaya ang Kapalaran” (What Will My Fate Be?). Mr. Enrico Lagasca, a bass-baritone and alumni of the world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers, sang “Bituing Marikit” (Beautiful Star).
The Mission personnel also took part in various Independence Day activities in New York, including the flag-raising ceremony on June 12, as well as the Philippine Independence Day parade along Madison Avenue on June 07. END