By: Sohail Majeed Butt
The 127th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence Day. Embassy of the Philippines in Islamabad marked the Independence Day of the Philippines with a grand celebration. The event showcased the deep-rooted friendship and strong bilateral ties between the Philippines and Pakistan. Distinguished guests, including Federal Minister Rana Tanvir Hussain, Ambassadors of ASEAN countries, host H.E. Dr. Emanuel R. Fernandez Philippine Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and other dignitaries graced the occasion. The Philippines National Day celebration, held in Islamabad, was a testament to the longstanding and multifaceted relationship between the Philippines and Pakistan. The event commenced with the playing of both countries’ national anthems, evoking a sense of unity and camaraderie among the attendees. Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, delivered a keynote address at a ceremony marking the 127th Independence Day of the Republic of the Philippines. Representing the Government of Pakistan, the Minister conveyed warm congratulations and best wishes to the Filipino leadership and people on this historic occasion.
In his remarks, the Minister highlighted the Philippines’ remarkable struggle for freedom, hailing it as a symbol of resilience, determination, and national pride. “Today, we celebrate not just your independence, but the enduring values of courage and unity that have shaped your national journey,” he said. Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain emphasized the historical depth of bilateral relations between Pakistan and the Philippines, noting that diplomatic ties were established as early as 1949—only two years after Pakistan’s own independence. He underscored that this long-standing relationship has evolved into a robust partnership rooted in shared democratic values, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. The Minister called for deepening bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors. “There exists immense potential to collaborate in agriculture, climate adaptation, pharmaceutical development, renewable energy, and digital innovation,” he noted. He particularly emphasized the role of joint research initiatives, public-private partnerships, and institutional exchanges in addressing common global challenges such as food security and climate resilience. Touching upon trade and economic relations, Rana Tanveer Hussain advocated for greater market integration and business-to-business engagement. “Both our countries stand to benefit from enhanced trade flows, particularly in agri-tech, textiles, processed food, and halal-certified products. Pakistan welcomes investment from Filipino enterprises and encourages increased participation in trade expos and business delegations,” he stated. He also celebrated the cultural ties between the two nations, applauding the positive role played by the Filipino community in Pakistan and the growing number of Pakistani professionals, students, and entrepreneurs in the Philippines. “These people-to-people exchanges have built bridges of friendship and fostered cultural harmony,” he added. Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to constructive diplomacy, the Minister said that the two nations share a common vision for regional stability, multilateral cooperation, and sustainable development. “Our collaboration within ASEAN and other multilateral forums continues to reflect shared priorities and aspirations,” he remarked.
Concluding his speech, Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain expressed confidence that Pakistan-Philippines relations would continue to grow stronger in the years ahead. He once again extended heartfelt greetings to the Filipino nation on its independence anniversary, wishing continued progress and prosperity. Earlier, H.E. Dr. Emanuel R. Fernandez, Ambassador of Philippine expressed her gratitude to the government and people of Pakistan for their warm reception and support in commemorating the Independence Day of the Philippines. Dr. Emanuel address the ceremony, I am honored to extend my warm greetings to the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on the occasion of the 127th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence. On 12 June 1898, the Filipino people asserted their right to be free-to govern themselves, shape their own destiny, and take their place among the community of nations. This year, we commemorate our independence under the theme: “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan, Freedom, Future and History.
These three words reflect the journey of every nation that has emerged from colonial rule. Freedom is our foundation. The future is our shared responsibility. And history is the thread that ties us all together. The Philippines and Pakistan have enjoyed more than seven decades of friendly relations. Our peoples have stood side by side in times of change, supported each other in international fora, and cooperated in areas such as trade, education, disaster response, and counterterrorism. As the Philippines celebrates its independence, we are reminded of the importance of friendship among nations-especially those that understand the cost of freedom and the value of sovereignty. The Philippines remains committed to further strengthening its partnership with Pakistan, and to deepening the bonds of understanding between our peoples.
On this special day, I wish the people of Pakistan continued peace, prosperity, and progress.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Pakistan Zindabad!
