17 June 2016 – The Philippine Consulate General hosted a Vin d’ Honneur on the occasion of the 118th Anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence in Los Angeles on June 09.
It was attended by various leaders within the Filipino community, heads of various businesses in and around Los Angeles and members of the Consular Corps.
In the beginning of his welcome remarks, Consul General Leo M. Herrera-Lim, shared the words of President Benigno S. Aquino, III, that “our heroes emerged triumphant because of their solidarity, courage, and passion; they broke the shackles of abuse, inequality, and violence that once terrorized our people so that we may all enjoy the liberty, dignity, and hope we possess today.”
In his speech, he also happily shared developments in the Philippines. He talked about the dynamic and robust growth of the Philippine economy. With the registered quarter growth of 6.9 percent, the highest in the region, Consul General Herrera-Lim said that “the Philippines is the beginning to be the preferred destination of tourists, traders and investors. In this sense, we endeavor to be at the forefront of what it means to have sustainable inclusive development as a responsible member of the community of nations that has democracy in the bedrock of its foundations and an undying commitment towards human dignity.”
Consul General Herrera-Lim also mentioned about the high turnout of voters during the last national election. He said that it is the first time that we elected a President from Mindanao, the second largest island of the country and, for only the second time around, a lady Vice President. He also cited the proclamation of Senator Manny Pacquiao who has been a part-time resident of Los Angeles.
At the end of his speech, the Consul General quoted an eloquent portion of the Independence Day Message of Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Rene Almendras, which states, “it is often said that for us to build the future, we must honor the past. In keeping with this year’s theme of ‘Kalayaan 2016: Pagkakaisa, Pag-aambagan at Pagsulong,’ our celebration of our freedom is a powerful reminder of the true measure of our strength as a country; that is how we can bravely seize the challenges, and together—as one people passionately driven by shared vision of greatness---we can prevail.”
An invitation for a toast symbolizing a “cheer” to an Independent Philippines concluded his speech.
The flavors of a Philippine inspired cuisine were also featured during the event.
The celebration showcased the quintessential creativity and pride of a free Philippines through the songs and dances from the guest performers of the Philippine Consulate General: the Philippine Chamber Singers of Los Angeles, a dynamic, diverse and decorated group of Filipino music-lovers, bonded by their passion for choral singing; and Malaya Filipino American Dance Arts, a performing group dedicated to the enrichment and artistic practice of traditional folk dance in a new and inspiring way for future generations.
The Consulate General received proclamations of the 118th Anniversary of Philippine Independence from Los Angeles County and from the Office of Mayor Eric Garcetti. END
