The anniversary coincides with the UAE’s decision to extend the ‘Year of Sustainability’
In a message read before Filipinos witnessing the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Philippine embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Philippine consulate-general in Dubai, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo said that being Asia's first republic, the Philippines continues to stand proud among the free nations of the world.
She cited that the labour done to help guarantee peace, order and stability in the country paid off last year when the Philippines got the strongest economy in over 30 years. "Our investments are soaring and we are close to balancing our budget," she said.
The president said that the country's political discourse was vibrant, the Philippine press free and the country's Constitution shelters all who seek protection and embrace the rule of law.
The message of the president was read by Minister and Consul-General Noel Servigon at the Philippine embassy and Consul Vicente Bandillo at the Philippine consulate. It was followed by messages from Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo, Labour Secretary Marianito D. Roque and Trade and Industry Secretary Peter B. Favila.
In his message, Romulo stressed that this year's celebration is reminding the Filipinos that if they act with a common purpose and a unity of vision, they can achieve great things.
He reaffirmed the determination of DFA to fulfill its mandate of harnessing diplomacy for the protection, preservation and promotion of the national interest of the Filipinos in a free, stable and prosperous world.
Labour Secretary Roque, in his message, acknowledge the Filipino workers, including those working overseas, for always being involved in efforts to preserve and protect the country's hard-earned freedom.
"Your highly-regarded skills, insatiable yearning for new knowledge, diligence and strength of character have earned for us the respect of other races," he concluded.
He advised them to capitalise on the commendable traits in partnering with the Philippine government in a collective endeavour to free the country from poverty and work towards a progressive Philippines.
In the same manner, Trade and Industry Secretary Favila praised all Filipino workers in Dubai for their continued support to the country and for enjoying laudable terms of employment and benefits in the UAE.
He said that the overseas Filipino workers are the ambassadors of goodwill of the Philippines and through them, UAE and the Philippine will continue to strengthen and expand trade, economic, scientific, technological cooperation and other business relations.
The anniversary coincides with the UAE’s decision to extend the ‘Year of Sustainability’
Redwood Center of Excellence offers a nurturing environment with an IB Primary Years Programme, blending Montessori, Reggio Emilia, EYFS, and STEM, ensuring holistic development for children
Both countries will not only promote existing relations in petrochemical, energy and infrastructure but they are keen to explore new avenues and sectors to diversify their economic relations
UAE’s most-awarded nursery chain pioneers quality education and child development across 30 convenient locations in the UK and UAE
Unveiling the strategies driving the UAE's spa and wellness industry to new heights
Say goodbye to layover woes and hello to unforgettable adventures with Turkish Airlines' Stopover Istanbul and Touristanbul programmes
It will be important to watch if the central bank nudges the South Asian currency higher as a slight downward bias is likely to persist in the market, says expert
K. Padmarajan, a 65-year-old tyre repair shop owner, began fighting elections in 1988 from Tamil Nadu state