127th Philippine Independence Day Celebrated in Rome, Malta, and Firenze with Pride, Culture, and Community Spirit
Ambassador Neal Imperial, together with Consul General Randy Arquiza and Philippine Independence Day Association President Augusto Cruz, leads the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
ROME 01 July 2025 — The Philippine Independence Day Association (PIDA), in collaboration with the Philippine Embassy in Rome, celebrated the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence on 15 June 2025 at the Ergife Hotel. The event brought together approximately 3,000 Filipinos from Rome and neighboring cities for a vibrant and meaningful commemoration.
The festivities were officially inaugurated with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting led by Ambassador Neal Imperial, Consul General Randy Arquiza, and PIDA President Mr. Augusto Cruz.
In his Independence Day message, Ambassador Imperial underscored the enduring significance of freedom and national identity. He emphasized the “importance of unity among Filipinos, especially those living and working overseas, as a vital force in preserving cultural heritage, uplifting one another, and making positive contributions to host communities”. He also expressed his appreciation for the strong spirit of camaraderie among Filipinos in Rome and congratulated the officers and members of PIDA for organizing a successful event.
A major highlight of the celebration was the cultural presentation contest, in which various Filipino organizations delivered dynamic performances that showcased both traditional and contemporary Filipino culture. The International Philippine School in Italy (IPSI) was awarded first prize for their outstanding presentation, while the International Migrants School (IMS) and Young at Hearts Rome earned second and third places, respectively.
Guests also enjoyed a lively marketplace featuring 45 Filipino entrepreneurs, offering a wide array of authentic Filipino food and products. The marketplace served as a celebration of Filipino culinary heritage and a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of the Filipino diaspora in Rome.
The event was further honored by the presence of Ms. Barbara Funari, Councilor for Social Policies and Health of Rome, as well as a video message from Hon. Sabrina Giuseppetti, Presidente Municipio Roma XIII Aurelio, both of whom expressed admiration for the Filipino community’s contributions to Italian society.
In related events, the Filipino community in Malta held its own Independence Day celebration on 07 June 2025, in collaboration with the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Malta. The event featured a series of cultural performances that paid tribute to the Philippines’ rich heritage.
Similarly, a commemoration of Philippine independence was held in Firenze on 08 June 2025. A wreath-laying ceremony was conducted at the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal to honor his role in the country’s struggle for independence. Various Filipino communities and organizations in Firenze also presented cultural performances to celebrate the occasion.
The celebrations across Italy and Malta reflect the deep pride and enduring connection of Filipinos abroad to their heritage and homeland. END
Students of the International Philippine School in Italy (IPSI) showcase Maskara Festival
Members of the Miracle of Salvation Missionaries render their interpretation of the Filipino Folk Song Manang Biday
Students of the International Migrants School perform Alingawngaw ng Kalinangan
Filipino Community in Malta honors Philippine National Heroes
Ambassador Imperial, together with Consul General Arquiza and members of the Knights of Rizal, leads the Wreath-Laying Ceremony during the Philippine Independence Celebration in Firenze on 08 June 2025.
For more information, visit https://www.romepe.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.facebook.com/PHinItaly/, https://www.instagram.com/phinitaly or https://twitter.com/PHinItaly.