Islamabad, June 12, 2026: The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Islamabad commemorated the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence with a diplomatic reception held at a local hotel in the federal capital.
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain attended the event as chief guest, while Presidential Spokesperson Murtaza Solangi participated as guest of honour and delivered a special message on behalf of President Asif Ali Zardari.
Addressing the gathering, Philippine Ambassador Emmanuel R. Fernandez highlighted the enduring significance of Philippine independence while emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.
Referring to the recent devastating earthquake in the southern Philippines, Ambassador Fernandez said the tragedy had demonstrated the resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit of the Filipino people. He noted that while independence remains a cherished national value, no country can prosper in isolation in today’s global environment.
The ambassador also underscored the growing relationship between Pakistan and the Philippines, particularly in the areas of economic cooperation, political engagement, education, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.
He acknowledged the contributions of more than 3,500 Filipinos living and working in Pakistan in strengthening mutual understanding between the two nations and highlighted ongoing efforts to expand educational linkages, trade, and investment opportunities.
Ambassador Fernandez reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to working closely with Pakistan and other partners in promoting peace, mutual respect, sovereignty, and a rules-based international order.
In a message conveyed on behalf of President Asif Ali Zardari, Pakistan reiterated its commitment to further strengthening its longstanding friendship with the Philippines as the two countries prepare to celebrate 77 years of diplomatic relations later this year.
The president highlighted expanding opportunities for cooperation in trade, agriculture, food security, healthcare, education, information technology, renewable energy, and defence collaboration. He also acknowledged the important role played by the Pakistani community residing in the Philippines in enhancing bilateral relations.
Speaking on the occasion, Rana Tanveer Hussain emphasized the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Philippines relations and noted the growth in bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
He referred to the successful convening of the Second Pakistan-Philippines Joint Economic Commission in February 2026 and expressed Pakistan’s desire to further expand cooperation across political, economic, educational, cultural, and commercial sectors.
The minister also congratulated the Philippines on successfully hosting the 48th ASEAN Summit and related meetings and reaffirmed Pakistan’s interest in strengthening engagement with ASEAN member states.
The reception was attended by senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders, media representatives, members of the Filipino community in Pakistan, and friends of the Philippines.
The event served as an opportunity to celebrate Philippine independence while reaffirming the growing partnership between Pakistan and the Philippines, built on friendship, cooperation, and a shared commitment to peace, development, and regional prosperity.
