Message of the Secretary for Foreign Affairs on the Occasion of Africa Day

MANILA 25 May 2025 — I extend my warmest congratulations to the people and nations of the African continent on the celebration of Africa Day 2025. This day marks the 62nd anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union, and represents the enduring spirit of Pan-African unity, self-determination, and continental progress.

The Philippines deeply values its longstanding friendship with Africa, built on mutual respect, shared historical experiences, and common aspirations for sustainable development. As fellow nations that have emerged from colonial pasts, we recognize the significance of this day and the remarkable journey of the African continent towards greater integration and prosperity.

Today, we celebrate Africa's rich cultural heritage, dynamic economies, and growing global influence. We commend the African Union's commitment to Agenda 2063 and its vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa. The Philippines will continue to strengthen our partnerships across various sectors, including trade, education, healthcare, and agriculture.

As we face common global challenges - from climate change to health security - the Philippines reaffirms its commitment to the South-South cooperation and multilateralism. We look forward to enhancing our diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people ties with our African partners in the spirit of solidarity and mutual benefit.

May this celebration of Africa Day inspire renewed dedication to our shared pursuit of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity. END