PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

Message of H.E. Ma. Hellen De La Vega on the 125th Anniversary of Philippines Independence

12 June 2023, CANBERRA – I join all our kababayan across Australia in celebrating the 125th anniversary of the declaralion of the Independence of the Philippines. We honor the sacrifices of past and modern-day heroes and commit to our country's security, success and prosperity.

The theme of this year's Independence Day is "Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan." (Freedom, Future, History). The Phiilippines will observe a multi-year commemoration that highlights the birth of the country from the proclamation of independence on 12 June 1898 to the end of the first government with the capture of President Emilio Aguinaldo on 23 March 1901. This underscores our place in history as the earliest modern democracy and republic in Asia.

As a people, Filipinos have always fought on the side of freedom and sovereignty and we do so until today as we continue to stand for the rule of law, justice and universal human rights. We must nor lose sigh t of rhe democratic ideals and principles that inspired our forebears to step up and claim their destiny.

As we move forward, we are bound by our collective aspiration of bringing about just and comfortable lives for future Filipinos. In 2022, the Philippine economy grew by 7.6 percent, outperforming our own target of 6.5 to 7.5 percent. The government believes that this high-growth performance is projected to continue until 2028. I urge fellow Filipinos in Australia to continue supporting our country, invest in the opportunities that we offer and promote our creativity and ingenuity.

The Filipino-Australian community is an integral part of the historic and dynamic partnership of the Philippines and Australia. As the fifth largest migrant community at over 400,000 strong, you have reinforced the strength, diversity and success of Australia. We take pride in your contributions and we will continue to work with you in advancing our shared goals of expanding and deepening our bilateral cooperation, address current and emerging challenges and sustain the fruits of our hard work and perseverance.

Mabuhay ang pambansang kasarinlan! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!