Celebrating the 121st declaration of Philippines Independence Day

On June 12, 2019, the Philippines, along with its diplomatic missions all over the world, will be celebrating the 121st Declaration of the Philippine Independence. This day reminds its citizens once again of its inspiring history as the nation honours the sacrifices and courage of its forefathers that secured the freedom that Filipinos enjoy and cherish as a people, according to a press note from the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Abu Dhabi. 
On this auspicious day, the nation has many reasons to celebrate - the country's continued economic growth, massive gains in the peace process in the Southern Philippines, and the country's enhanced global presence in the community of nations through regional and international engagements and partnerships. Independence Day also allows Filipinos to reflect on their past achievements and at the same time, examine themselves as they confront the challenges that lie ahead. 
Furthermore, this month, the Embassy is not only celebrating its National Day, but it also commemorates the 39th year of the establishment of the Philippine resident mission in the UAE. In this regard, the past year saw strengthened bilateral relations on all fronts with the UAE seizing the momentum established in recent years.
The Embassy continued to engage with UAE officials in the areas of counterterrorism, food security, trade and economics, culture and sports, and labour cooperation for the mutual benefit of the peoples of the Philippines and the UAE.
The Philippine Government and the Philippine missions in the UAE are to accelerate preparations for the Expo 2020 Dubai which the two million Filipinos in the Middle East, and beyond, could be proud of. The Philippine diplomatic missions will also begin preparations for the 40th Anniversary of the bilateral relations of the Philippines and the UAE in 2020.
The Philippines also looks forward to hosting the third political consultations with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation within the year. In the economic field, the country notes that the UAE continues to be the Philippines' second largest trading partner in the Middle East. 
Finally, the Philippines will always be grateful to the government and people of the UAE for graciously hosting 700,000 Filipinos who call this country their second home. "We also commend all the initiatives of the UAE in improving the welfare of all foreign workers, including the Filipinos, across the Emirates," the note said.
Still part of the Philippine Government's commitment to the UAE's Year of Tolerance, and boosting efforts in cultural diplomacy, guests during the Philippine independence celebration on June 12 will enjoy not only select Filipino cuisine specially curated by FilFood Innovation Group but also a cultural feast.
Works of renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor dubbed "Islamic Philippines" will be exhibited while Filipino pianist Josue Greg Zuniega and violinist Christian Tan will serenade the guests during the reception. This was made possible with the support of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

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