PH Embassy in Budapest Hosts Diplomatic Reception, Commemorates 127th Philippine Independence Day

PH Embassy in Budapest Hosts Diplomatic Reception, Commemorates 127th Philippine Independence Day

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The Philippine Madrigal Singers, led by artistic director and choirmaster Professor Mark Anthony Carpio, showcasing Filipino talent at its best during the Philippine Embassy in Budapest’s commemoration of the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence.

BUDAPEST 21 July 2025 — In a lively celebration of freedom, national pride, and friendship, the Philippine Embassy in Hungary hosted a diplomatic reception to mark the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence. Held at the elegant MOMKult Cultural Center in Budapest, the reception paid homage to the Philippines’ rich history and heritage, world class talent, and enduring global partnerships.

With its theme, “A Serenade for Independence and Strengthened Global Ties,” guests were captivated by the enthralling performance of the Philippine Madrigal Singers, one of the country’s cultural treasures showcasing Filipino excellence on grand stages abroad. With the support of the Philippine National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the Embassy is privileged to have hosted the debut concert in Budapest by the first choral group in the world to have twice won the prestigious European Grand Prix for Choral Singing. Named UNESCO Artists for Peace, the group’s performances are not only musical masterpieces, but deemed by many to be spiritual experiences.

Led by Philippine Ambassador to Hungary Maria Elena P. Algabre, the Embassy welcomed more than 200 guests from the Hungarian government, private sector, academe and civil society, ambassadors from Asia, Europe, and Americas, other members of the diplomatic corps, and Filipino community leaders.

In her remarks, the Ambassador underlined the values of freedom and democracy that defined the country’s struggles towards independence and that have been guiding the country’s path towards national identity and unity. “Independence Day is a celebration of who we are and how far we have come. It echoes in the lives of our farmers and fisherfolks, workers commuting through the hustle and bustle of our cities, students dreaming of better futures, and Filipinos overseas waving our flag wherever they are.” She shared the impressive economic growth path of the country for the past years and the continuing focus of the government to gain freedom from the present challenges of having equitable development to Filipinos across its more than 7,640-plus islands.

She thanked Hungary and the countries represented by the guest diplomats on the strengthening partnerships of their countries with the Philippines. She highlighted the steady expansion of Philippines-Hungary bilateral ties. Since the establishment of bilateral relations over fifty years ago, Hungary has become one of the more active partners of the Philippines. This partnership is anchored on shared values of freedom, democracy, and rule of law.

The Guest of Honor, Deputy State Secretary for External Economic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Ms. Katalin Bihari, outlined the significant bilateral engagements and cooperation between the Philippines and Hungary. These include the regular political dialogue and exchange of visits at the Foreign Minister and senior government levels as well as between parliamentarians; the joint committee on economic cooperation and the links between chambers of commerce; the increasing trade and investment links; cooperation in sectors such as water management, agriculture and IT; education cooperation; and labor cooperation. She affirmed that the Philippines plays a vital role in promoting regional stability and global peace. For Hungary, the Philippines is a key partner in Southeast Asia, a partnership based on shared values, including democracy, freedom, national sovereignty and Christian heritage.

The performance was followed by a reception showcasing Filipino hospitality. Guests stayed to savor traditional Filipino dishes served in a contemporary style, from the savory adobo and lumpia to sweet delicacies like leche flan.

The MOMKult Cultural Center is a significant player in the cultural scene of Budapest, and has been part of popular festivals such as the Jazzy Festival, the Get Closer jazz festival, and the Cziffra classical music festival.

As the performance drew to a close, the final notes of the Madrigal Singers reverberated in the air, echoing a message of unity in diversity, resilience, and connection between cultures and peoples. It was more than a diplomatic reception. It was a night that honored identity and history, acknowledged the significance of strengthened bilateral Philippines-Hungary ties, and reaffirmed the Philippines’ place among the community of nations. The event was a testament that music, culture, and shared values can draw people together, and that independence, while rooted in history, could find its most intimate and genuine meaning in artistic and cultural connection. END

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