Ceremonial Hall, Malacañan Palace
January 11, 2024
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. conveyed his optimism for the new year, rekindled bilateral relations and diplomatic accomplishments, as well as a positive economic outlook given the Philippines’ strong economic performance, as he hosted the traditional vin d’honneur at the Ceremonial Hall in Malacañan Palace.
Expressing his gratitude to the diplomatic community for their crucial role in facilitating his foreign visits and fostering bilateral ties, the President acknowledged the significance of their collaboration in creating new opportunities for the Philippines and their respective countries.
“I am proud to have closely worked with many of you on many initiatives and endeavors since I assumed the Presidency in the middle of 2022. I hope that we will continue to serve as able agents of our respective governments and countries in furthering the breadth and depth of our bilateral ties as well as in exploring collaboration in regional and multilateral fronts,” the Chief Executive said.
He urged the diplomatic corps to work closely with the Philippine Government in identifying areas for joint endeavors, outlining the challenging tasks ahead, including addressing concerns on poverty, education, food security, peace and order, health, jobs and livelihood.
On the Philippine economy, President Marcos Jr. announced the nation’s successful recovery from the pandemic, citing the 6.1% growth in the third quarter of 2023, along with better management of overall inflation and decrease in unemployment and underemployment rates.
Furthermore, he urged countries to work together amidst geopolitical tensions, highlighting the Philippines’ independent foreign policy while emphasizing flexibility and cooperation in addressing mutual concerns.
“For the Philippines, the New Year or January is not only the start of our year. It is also the symbolic renewal of our social contract to our people; and our commitment and obligation as a responsible member of the international community,” the President stated.
After the President’s remarks, Archbishop Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See and Dean of the diplomatic corps, conveyed his message on behalf of the diplomatic community in the country.
The attendees in the occasion included Ambassadors from 54 nations and Heads of 11 International Organizations.
The term vin d’honneur, originating from the French tradition meaning ‘wine of honor,’ is observed biannually in the Philippines, commemorating both the New Year and the anniversary of the nation’s independence.
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