Phl, HK affirm close ties at Phl Independence Day reception

The ceremonial toast marking more than five decades of friendship

The Philippines and Hong Kong last night reiterated their commitment to maintaining their close diplomatic, economic and cultural ties, at ceremonies marking the 128^th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence, held at Island Shangri-la Hotel in Admiralty.

Philippine Consul General Romulo Victor Israel said: “On this occasion, we reaffirm the unbreakable bond between the Philippines and Hong Kong which is rooted in history, driven by commerce and sustained by the bond of mutual respect.”

He announced various Philippine cultural events slated to be held in Hong Kong, including the staging in December of a musical show depicting the life of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, who once practised as an ophthalmologist in the city. The play will mark the 130^th anniversary of Dr. Rizal’s martyrdom.

The world-famous Philippine Madrigal Singers will also hold a musical concert in Hong Kong in August, with the support of the HK Tourism Board and HK Chamber of Commerce.

Retired Ambassador and former Congen Vicky Bataclan was welcomed to the reception 
by Congen Romulo Israel, his deputy Von Ryan Ferrera and Filcom leaders

In his reply, Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan noted that the day also marked the 51^st anniversary of the start of diplomatic relations between the two governments. He also pointed out that the Philippines is this year’s host of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) summit, which goes by the theme “navigating our future together.”

Chan said that working together for peace and security is vital to ensuring the ties between the two governments remain strong.

“In a world of political uncertainties, we must all work together, we must advance peace and security in our region. That is how we create the conditions for shared economic prosperity and people-centered progress.”

His comments were made a day after Beijing imposed sanctions on Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr and his immediate family, barring them from entering mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, and prohibiting Chinese businesses from dealing with them.

China’s Foreign Ministry said the sanctions were due to Teodoro making “irresponsible remarks (that) undermines China’s legitimate interests and sabotages China-Philippines relations.”

No specific remarks of Teodoro were mentioned, but the Philippine defense chief is known to be an outspoken critic of Beijing’s actions in the West Philippine Sea. 

He has previously said he had no assets in China and no plans to visit the country.

Asean consuls general link arms with HK government officials in show of solidarity

The formal program at the diplomatic reception ended with Asean consuls general present going up the stage and doing their signature handshake by linking crossed arms.

Around 200 Filipino community leaders joined guests from the Hong Kong government, diplomatic corps, as well as civil society, business and professional groups at the event hosted by the Philippine Consulate.