PH EMBASSY AND FILCOM CELEBRATE 128TH PH INDEPENDENCE AND 80TH PH-EGYPT DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS

19 June 2026 – The Philippine Embassy hosted the celebration of the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence and the 80th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Egypt. The event gathered some 150 guests, including members and representatives of various Filipino community organizations, workers, students, and residents in Egypt.

In her opening remarks, Ambassador Charmaine Rowena C. Aviquivil highlighted the theme “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.” as a reminder of the sacrifices of national heroes and the responsibility to pass on Filipino values, culture, and pride to the next generation. Ambassador Aviquivil also honored the contributions of Filipinos in Egypt across various professions and called for continued collaboration between the Embassy, the Filipino community, and second-generation Filipinos to showcase Philippine heritage and foster cultural exchange in Egypt.

The program also featured the Independence Day message of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the message of Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Teresa P. Lazaro, read by Ms. Crystal Ann Dunuan, Second Secretary and Consul. Thereafter, Mr. Bryan Fernandez, Third Secretary and Vice Consul, provided updates on the Embassy’s consular and ATN services. He reminded Filipinos to register with the Embassy, maintain communication with family, understand labor rights, and comply with Egyptian laws and customs while keeping valid documentation. He also encouraged the community to be partners with the Embassy in reporting the cases of Filipinos in need of assistance.

The celebration was made more vibrant with performances from Filipino community groups, including the Six O’clock Ensemble led by Mr. Antonio S. Carreon Jr., the Maadi Veterans led by Ms. Nova Beatriz Madkour, and a solo performance by Ms. Yara Mapandi.

After the program, the members of the community mingled and also got the opportunity to approach the Ambassador and Embassy personnel for brief introductions, photo taking and some discussions of concerns and interests in future Embassy-Filcom projects. The celebration concluded with refreshments including Filipino sopas, assorted kakanin and pastil.

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