Philippine Embassy in Kuwait Celebrates 127th Philippine Independence Day Honoring the Journey of Freedom, Nationhood, and the Global Filipino
KUWAIT 26 June 2025 — The Philippine Embassy in Kuwait hosted a National Day Reception on 17 June 2025 at the Arraya Ballroom by Marriott International, Kuwait City, in celebration of the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence.
The reception brought together around 600 guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, Kuwaiti government officials, business leaders, media representatives, and members of the Filipino community.
His Excellency Ambassador Sameeh Essa Johar Hayat, Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs of the State of Kuwait, graced the occasion as Guest of Honor.
In his keynote address, Philippine Ambassador to Kuwait, Jose A. Cabrera III paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of the nation's forebears in their quest for freedom, emphasizing that “a steadfast dedication to peace and democracy, the universal rights of humanity, and the principles of equality, mutual respect, and international goodwill—even amidst adversity—paved the way for the Philippines to attain political stability, peace and order, and the rule of law.”
Also highlighted were the Philippines’ resilient economic growth, strategic infrastructure and investment initiatives, and the global competitiveness of its young, skilled workforce. The country’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) was reaffirmed, along with the longstanding friendship with Kuwait and recognition of the invaluable contributions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
The message concluded the address with a call for shared global responsibility, compassion, and enduring peace.
A ceremonial cake cutting followed, led by Ambassador Cabrera, Ambassador Hayat, and Ambassador Zubaydullo Zubaydov, Dean Diplomatic Corps and the Ambassador of Tajikistan.
The celebration featured a cultural showcase through five interactive booths that reflected the diversity and richness of Philippine heritage:
- Habi at Ganda: Philippine Weaves and Traditional Attires
- Pambansang Sagisag: Symbols of Filipino Identity
- Tuklas Pilipinas: Celebrating Our Islands and Wonders (Photobooth)
- Sulatin at Panitikan: Scripts and Literature of the Philippines
- Musika at Indak: Rhythms and Dances of the Philippines
Guests were treated to cultural performances, including:
- A choral rendition of “Piliin Mo ang Pilipinas” by the Embassy Choir
- A traditional Pangalay dance by Zambasulta
- A duet of “Himig ng Pag-ibig” by Mr. Adenauer C. Lintag and Ms. Catherine Zaldivar
A dinner buffet featured Filipino dishes such as Chicken Adobo, Calamares, Kare-kare, Sapin-Sapin, and Kutsinta, complemented by an international selection of continental cuisine.
Filipino artists in Kuwait also lent their talents by exhibiting various artworks, including paintings and an exquisitely crafted gown, for the celebration.
The vibrant celebration did not only serve as a symbol of independence and national pride, but of shared values, enduring friendship, and the strong Filipino spirit that continues to thrive beyond its shores. END
(From left to right) Ambassador Hayat, Ambassador Cabrera and Ambassador Zubaydov
Guests were treated with their names written in Baybayin as souvenir
Embassy choir performed their rendition of “Piliin Mo ang Pilipinas”
Zambasulta presented Pangalay dance as part of the cultural performances
For more information, visit https://www.kuwaitpe.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.philembassykuwait.gov.kw or https://www.facebook.com/PHinKuwait/ , https://twitter.com/PHinKuwait or https://www.instagram.com/phinkuwait/.