19 June 2012- In celebration of the 114th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence, more than 100 members of the Filipino community joined Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Virginia H. Benavidez and the Embassy officers and staff in a flag-raising ceremony at the "Ang Bahay" (Philippine Ambassador's Residence) in Wellington last June 12.
They braved the cold wintry weather and icy winds to proudly raise the Philippine flag, sing from their hearts the Philippine National Anthem and recite their oath of allegiance to the country.
Rev. Fr. Ambet dela Cruz, Wellington's Filipino Chaplain, and Pastor Vic Espejo of the Filipino Harvest Ministry for Christ led the invocation for the Philippines and the Filipino people.
In her Independence Day Message, Ambassador Benavidez recalled the defining moment in Philippine history when President Emilio Aguinaldo declared the country's independence and hoisted the Philippine flag amidst the spirited playing of the Marcha Nacional Filipina in Kawit, Cavite.
She emphasized that through the sacrifices, exemplary valor and inspiring bravery of our forefathers, Filipinos were bound by the spirit of strength, freedom and love of country as demonstrated in their collective will to move forward and chart the destiny of our nation.
She pointed out that the meaning of our country's national birthday lies in reverence for the past, gratitude to our founding fathers and the continued realization and commitment that we are responsible for our beloved country.
"This year's Independence Day theme "Kalayaan: Pananagutan ng Bayan para sa Matuwid na Daan", which translates to "Freedom: The Accountability of a Sovereign Nation of Responsible Citizenry", is a resounding call to all Filipinos, wherever they may be, to value their hard-won freedom, work hand-in-hand and stand shoulder to shoulder as we all join our country's sustained march towards peace, progress and prosperity," Ambassador Benavidez said.
"As one people, let us continue to contribute to our country's political, economic and socio-cultural development guided by the vision of President Benigno S. Aquino III to build a brighter future for the Filipino people anchored on good governance, rule of law, justice and truth, accountability, a culture of transparency and integrity, inclusive growth, sustainable economic stability and community driven progress," the Ambassador added.
The Filipinos and guests applauded when Ambassador Benavidez highlighted the fact that the Philippines has been compared to an island of stability in the midst of a fast changing and formidably challenging world.
Latest economic indicators pointed out that the Philippines economy grew by 6.4% in the first quarter of 2012, the highest in the Southeast Asian region. International credit agencies have raised the Philippines' credit standing from stable to positive, foreign direct investments grew by 30.6% to US$5.91 billion, the highest in 16 years and the Philippines moved 20 places higher in the latest World Economic Forum's latest trade competitiveness ranking.
The Philippines' stock and bond markets have also reached all-time highs.
The Philippine Government continues to work hard to provide targeted relief to Filipinos who suffer the most and implement several reforms and programs, notably, in social welfare, education and health to address the urgent needs of the Filipino people.
As President Aquino has said, "my administration has put in place strategic interventions to ensure that any gains reaped from a growing economy are channelled directly to the people."
"During these crucial times of unprecedented challenges and significant changes taking place in our country, the region and the world, it is important that Filipinos renew our steadfast commitment to the ideals that our heroes lived and died for and continue to rededicate ourselves in unity, solidarity and teamwork to shape a much brighter future for our countrymen," Ambassador Benavidez said.
Ambassador Benavidez stressed that all Filipinos have a stake in our country's continuing progress. In the words of President Aquino, "We have worked tirelessly to revitalize our nation and revive our culture of integrity. A horizon of opportunities lies before our straight and righteous path, and I trust that we will remain united in seizing the momentum for change and securing a future that the Filipino people deserve."
The Independence Day Message of President Benigno S. Aquino III was read by Minister and Consul Giovanni E. Palec while the message of Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario was read by Minister and Consul General Marcos Punsalang.
Ambassador Benavidez called on the Filipino Community leaders to join her in cutting the Philippine Independence Day Cake prepared by the "Ang Bahay" staff.
Mr. Rene Sto. Domingo, representing the group of senior citizens in Wellington known as the "Young Once," then recited a Tagalog poem that he composed especially for the occasion.
The program ended with the emotional singing of the patriotic song "Pilipinas Kong Mahal" as the guests stood and waved their Philippine flaglets.
The guests were treated to a sumptuous brunch of vegetables in tomato soup, beef tapa, chicken inasal, vegetables with mixed seafood, the "Ang Bahay" carrot cake, dates tea and the all-time favorite, taho.Everyone went home filled with pride for the Philippine national heritage, gratitude to God for the country's freedom and blessings and happiness for the opportunity to get together and celebrate the 114th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence in New Zealand. END