21 June 2012- The Philippine Embassy in the Holy See, led by Ambassador Mercedes A. Tuason, celebrated the 114th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence with a flag-raising ceremony and the recitation of the pledge of allegiance with officers and staff in attendance at the chancery on June 12.
In the afternoon, the Holy Eucharist was celebrated by His Eminence Prospero Cardinal Grech, an Augustinian, as main celebrant at the Maria, Madre della Famiglia Church at the Vatican City.
Some 18 Filipino and foreign priests concelebrated the holy mass. It was noted that the Augustinians were the first to arrive on Philippine shores to evangelize some 500 years ago, establishing that very special bond between the Philippines and the order.
The Holy Eucharist was followed by a reception at the courtyard of the Peschiera Fountains at the Vatican Gardens, known to be among one of the prettiest sites in the gardens with the Vatican Basilica dome at the backdrop.
This was the first time the Philippines held an event at the Vatican Gardens, outside the Roman Curia and the Office of the Secretary of State - one of only a few countries which have done so.
