By Adnan Hameed TWA ______ The Embassy of the Philippines in Islamabad commemorated the 126th anniversary of the Philippines' independence with pride and joy, hosting an event filled with traditional dances and singing. This significant milestone in the nation’s history was celebrated under the theme ‘Freedom, Future, and History.’ Ambassador Maria Agnes M. Cervantes emphasized the importance of the occasion, stating, “This special event allows us to honour the bravery, resilience, and unwavering spirit of our forefathers, who fought for the freedom we hold dear today.”

The celebration underscored the Philippines’ progress and unity as a nation since declaring its independence on June 12, 1898. Ambassador Cervantes highlighted the theme’s essence, noting that "Freedom signifies the hard-earned liberty our ancestors achieved for us. The future represents our determination to build a prosperous nation, and history reflects our rich past." Reflecting on the nation’s journey, Ambassador Cervantes remarked, “Our fight for freedom demonstrated our unwavering spirit and desire for self-determination. Despite many challenges, we have always emerged stronger, remaining committed to justice. It is our duty to preserve this legacy by promoting unity, fostering peace, and working for the common good.” The event also celebrated the Philippines’ continued commitment to democracy, human rights, and social justice. The Ambassador highlighted that ‘freedom, future, and history’ serve as a constant reminder of the ongoing task of nation-building, which requires innovation, ingenuity, and perseverance. Ambassador Cervantes expressed gratitude for the warm and hospitable environment provided by the host country, Pakistan. This year also marked the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Pakistan relations, highlighting the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations. She praised the strong diplomatic ties built over the past seven and a half decades, grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and commitment to bilateral cooperation. “Over the past seven and a half decades, our countries have built strong diplomatic ties grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and commitment to bilateral cooperation. This enduring partnership has fostered economic collaboration, cultural exchange, and mutual support for the international order,” the envoy said. Ambassador Cervantes extended her embassy’s gratitude to the people of Pakistan for their friendship and support, looking forward to many more years of fruitful collaboration and solidarity. “This friendship is crucial in realising that building a brighter future is a collective responsibility. Together with the international community, the Philippines believe in peace in the world. We ensure that the legacy of the past inspires our future,” she concluded.