15 June 2012 - To celebrate the 114th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence, the Philippine Embassy in Berne and the Filipino community in Switzerland, led by the Filipino Community Network Bern, worked hand in hand in organizing activities that showcased the strengths of the Filipinos in that country.
The highlight of the activities was the Filipino community celebration held on June 9 in Canton Berne. Over a thousand Filipinos from all parts of Switzerland and Liechtenstein, officials from the Philippine Missions in Geneva, led by Ambassador Evan Garcia, attended the affair which was graced by Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz and Party list Representative Raymund Mendoza.
In his Independence Day message, Philippine Ambassador to Switzerland Leslie Baja congratulated the Filipinos for their positive image and contribution to Swiss society as well as in the socio-economic development of the Philippines. He exhorted them to maintain this image which helps in opening the door for other Filipinos to work in Switzerland.
Secretary Baldoz briefed the Filipino community on the positive developments achieved under the Aquino administration which is helping attain the President's goals of inclusive growth and job creation. She said that the Philippines is on track in its development programs and the Filipino migrants have an important role in nation building.
The Filipino community celebration showcased the talents of Filipinos, Swiss and Swiss-Filipinos from across Switzerland and ended with the crowd singing the EDSA song "Magkaisa".
The celebration was also organized as a charity event that will benefit the primary health care programs in Samar of the Zuellig Family Foundation.
Earlier, the Filipino Community Network Bern organized a thanksgiving mass in Tagalog on June 3 to commemorate Kalayaan 2012.
On June 11, Filipino community leaders joined the diplomatic corps, Swiss government officials, business community and civil society in the Vin d' Honneur hosted by Ambassador and Mrs. Baja in Berne. The attendees at the reception illustrated the strength and vibrancy of Philippine-Swiss relations which is celebrating 150 years in 2012.
A flag ceremony at the Embassy chancery was held on June 12, attended likewise by Filipino community leaders. In his message, Ambassador Baja thanked all the leaders for helping ensure the success of the celebrations and for instilling unity among the Filipinos in Switzerland. END
