Malacañan Palace
June 12, 2024
“Today’s reception is more than just a commemoration of the birth of the Philippine Republic – the first in Asia – but a strong affirmation of our century-old nationhood, and of our collective duty as Filipinos to safeguard what our forefathers have fought and died for so that we may carry on our sacrosanct mandate to protect our country and defend everything that is rightly ours from those who will try to cross these lines,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said as he led the ceremonial toast at the annual vin d’honneur reception, marking the 126th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood at the Ceremonial Hall in Malacañan Palace.
Speaking before members of the diplomatic corps, headed by Most Reverend Archbishop Charles John Brown, D.D., Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, President Marcos Jr. reflected on the enduring spirit of Filipino nationalism since the unfurling of the Philippine flag on June 12, 1898.
“The struggle for Philippine independence continues to reverberate to this day, not against colonial oppression, but against modern-day challenges,” stated the President, urging Filipinos to draw strength from their valiant past and the heroism of their forefathers.
The Chief Executive also took the opportunity to introduce the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ (New Philippines), a governance initiative aimed at fostering social and economic inclusivity and transformation. He highlighted recent economic achievements, including the year-to-date (YTD) inflation rate of 3.5%, which is within the government’s target band of 2% to 4% despite the challenges posed by El Niño, and in maintaining a good rating as a lucrative investment destination. He added that this stable outlook translates to more accessible financing for the government’s development programs.
On foreign policy, President Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to promoting peace and upholding the rule of law through independent international engagements. He expressed confidence in building stronger bilateral ties and deepening cooperation with global partners, especially in areas where cooperation has yet to reach its full potential.
In closing his remarks, President Marcos Jr. invited all attendees to join him in a toast to stronger bilateral relations, the good health and prosperity of all present, and the continued progress of the Philippines.
With this year’s theme, ‘Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.’, the 126th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood kicked off three (3) days of festivities as a new tradition of Bagong Pilipinas, featuring various attractions and fun activities at the Quirino Grandstand in the City of Manila.
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