11 December 2013 - Philippine Ambassador to Lebanon Leah M. Basinang-Ruiz led Embassy, Philippine Overseas Labor Office and Overseas Workers’ Welfare Administration officers and staff in commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of the Philipines’ national hero Andres Bonifacio on November 29. The event started with the singing of the “Lupang Hinirang” and recitation of the “Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas”, followed by a brief inspirational message from Ambassador Ruiz.
Assistanc-to-Nationals Officer Dexter Macaraeg read an article, which gave a moving account of the life of Andres Bonifacio and the critical and leading role he played in the Filipinos’ struggle for independence from colonial rule. The commemoration was capped by the dramatic singing of the poem written by Andres Bonifacio entitled Pag-Ibig sa Tinubuang Lupa, performed by Welfare Officer Imelda Gatinao. Joining the Embassy Officers and Staff in the event were the Filipinos sheltered in the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipino Resource Center. END