21 June 2016 - Celebrations commemorating the 118th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence was centered on the Filipino community this year for the Philippine Consulate General in Milan and Northern Italy. On June 12, a flag ceremony was held at the Consulate’s premises on Via Stromboli, attended by Filipinos from greater Milan, Modena, and Genova.
Consul General Marichu Mauro addressed the Filipino community with her remarks that centered on this year’s theme of “Pagkakaisa, Pag-aambagan, Pagsulong.”
The Consul General reminded everyone of their role to play in nation building especially during this time when our country is in transition. “Mag-ambag tayo sa ikakabuti nating lahat. Let us not leave it for our incoming President alone to realize the changes in our country. President-elect Rodrigo Duterte needs each and every one of us to make his hopes and dreams for the Philippines a reality,” the Consul General said.
Consul Conrado Demdem was then tasked to read President Benigno S. Aquino III’s message to our kababayans while Vice Consul Flaureen Dacanay read the message of Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Jose Rene D. Almendras. The message of Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz was read by OWWA Officer Ms. Jocelyn Hapal.
Various leaders of the Filipino organziations were also given an opportunity to address all our kababayans present. Afterwards, a Filipino breakfast of tapsilog was served to all attendees of the celebration. END