20 June 2016 – In line with the 118th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, the Permanent Mission of the Philippines to the United Nations hosted a National Day reception attended by diplomats from various Permanent Missions and officials from the United Nations and other international organizations.
In her remarks, Ambassador Lourdes O. Yparraguirre, Permanent Representative, said this year’s Independence Day theme, “Kalayaan 2016: Pagkakaisa, Pag-aambagan at Pagsulong,” translated as Freedom 2016: Unity, Contribution and Progress, is most fitting given the on-going, peaceful leadership transition in the country and the recognition of the Philippines as one of the most dynamic economies in the Asia-Pacific region today.
“We commemorate Independence Day with great pride and a renewed sense of purpose – proud of our freedoms, determined to sustain our economic progress, vigilant of our rights, and dedicated to strengthening our democratic institutions and way of life,” she said.
During the reception, Ambassador Yparraguirre also introduced the Philippine candidate to the United Nations Commission on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), Ambassador Rosario Manalo.
The officers and staff of the Mission also took part in various Independence Day activities in New York including the flag-raising ceremony on June 13, as well as the Philippine Independence Day parade along Madison Avenue on June 05. END
