31 July 2012 – Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario lauded the men and women of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) for their steadfast commitment and positive contributions in promoting the three pillars of Philippine Foreign policy as he led the Department’s observance of the 115th DFA Foundation Day and the 149th Birth Anniversary of Apolinario Mabini this morning.
“I commend you for your sustained commitment in ‘helping realize the Philippines’ full potential,’” Secretary del Rosario said in his address to the DFA officials and personnel who attended the simple program at the DFA Main Building’s Bulwagang Apolinario Mabini in Pasay City.
In his remarks, Secretary del Rosario likewise paid tribute to Apolinario Mabini, the first Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
“As the country’s first Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Apolinario Mabini tirelessly advocated a foreign policy anchored on sovereignty and self-determination. Indeed, his life was one that was not defined by the constrictions of fate or circumstance, rather than by his vision of what the nation could achieve as an independent State in the community of nations,” Secretary del Rosario said.
The Secretary likewise congratulated the Gawad Mabini awardees in his speech, noting their contributions in promoting the country’s interests here and abroad. The Gawad Mabini was conferred by President Benigno S. Aquino III upon the personnel of the DFA and Filipinos who have steadfastly rendered distinguished service and who promoted the interests of the Republic of the Philippines at home and overseas. It is named after the country’s first Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Apolinario Mabini.
“Today, as we commemorate the legacy of the man whose profound patriotism, uncompromising beliefs and remarkable intellect helped shape Philippine diplomacy, we also honor the men and women of the Department who have exhibited remarkable dedication in pursuit of the three pillars of our country’s foreign policy,” he said.
The Gawad Mabini, composed of three ranks namely, the Grand Cross (Dakilang Kamanong), Commander (Dakilang Kasugo) and Member (Kasugo), were conferred to a total of 16 recipients, both in the DFA’s Home Office and in its Foreign Service Posts.
Established on 23 June 1898 under President Emilio Aguinaldo’s administration, the DFA Foundation Day is traditionally celebrated every 23rd of June, following Presidential Proclamation No. 1717 dated 24 February 1978. However, to ensure that more officials and employees could join in the celebration, the DFA Day is being celebrated on a different date this year. END
