On the occasion of the 120th Anniversary of the Philippines Independence, Philippines Ambassador to Bahrain Alfonso Ver extends his warm greetings and best wishes to the Filipino community residing in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
“Once again we recall the heroism and sacrifice of all of our heroes who readily gave their all to realise the aspirations of a free nation,” he said.
“This year we celebrate this occasion with the theme ‘Freedom 2018: change we fought for, an offering to an abundant future’.
“Like our gallant forefathers before, we are called today to emulate their sacrifice and heroism to attain an abundant future for our country, our families and ourselves.”
“This is our clarion call in our daily lives in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
“This year adds more significance in our celebration as we also mark the milestone of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of the Philippines and the Kingdom of Bahrain.
“I therefore call upon you, my fellow Filipinos in Bahrain to continue their commendable work for our families and ultimately for the development of the Philippines as you likewise continue to be positive contributors to the Kingdom that has warmly welcomed you to be your second home.
“My fellow Filipinos please be assured that your government, your president and your Embassy will continue to strive for the needed changes towards the progress and prosperity of the Filipino nation.”
Philippines President Rodrigo Roa Duterte joined his people in celebrating the 120th anniversary of independence, which he described as a historic day.
“This historic day forms the foundation of the liberties we enjoy today,” he said.
“Through the patriotic fervor shown by our forefathers, we have freed ourselves from colonial subjugation and proved to the world that we stand united as the pioneer of republican democracy in Asia.
“May the solidarity and heroism exhibited by our ancestors fuel our desire to spur meaningful and lasting change in our communities as we collectively battle the social ills of corruption, illegal drugs and criminality that impede our progress as a nation.”
Also on the occasion the Filipino Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Cayetano relayed his heartfelt greetings to all Filipinos around the world and expressed great pride in reaffirming their shared heritage of independence.
“The leadership of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte gives us the golden opportunity for the Philippines to be truly free,” he said in a statement.
“The government is now working hard for us to continue our fight for independence albeit a different kind of independence: freedom from crime, freedom from illegal drugs and freedom from corruption.
“We shall push on and fight for our national interests and uplift the image of the Philippines in order to bring real change and economic and political benefits home by being friends to all and enemies to none.”
Labour and Employment Department Secretary Silvestre Bello also expressed pride in this historic celebration. “As we commemorate the past, we are reminded of the valour and heroism of our forbearers,” he said in a statement.
“Today our independence is characterised by a higher level of pride – pride in our globally competitive people in most parts of the globe.
“The Filipinos no doubt remain to be among the most efficient, productive and sought-after partners in moving other nation’s economies.”