Report : Tazeen Akhtar | Pictures : Raja Ghulam Farid
ISLAMABAD: 12 June 2025 – The Republic of Philippines is celebrating the 127th Independence Day and in Pakistan particularly the 76th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The representatives of both nations have termed the bilateral ties as close and cordial. They have expressed their firm resolve to enhance the mutual cooperation in all spheres.
H.E Dr. Emmanual R. Fernandez and spouse Alicia K. Fernandez hosted a grand reception in Islamabad to mark both the auspicious occasions at hotel Movenpick on 12 June 2025. A large number of guests from all walks of life were present. They included Gov and Military officials of Pakistan, International community including ambassadors, high commissioners of ASEAN region and other continents of the world.
Ambassador in his welcome address, shed light on the history of the struggle of Philippines people for independence and highlighted the importance of freedom for the nations. He opted to lighter notes to the amusement of the guests. He expressed hope that the already present mutual understanding on enhancing the cooperation can be further exploited for the bilateral benefits.
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain was the chief guest at this event who spoke highly about Pakistan’s relations with Philippines and further pledged to take the mutual cooperation to new high level.
The minister in his keynote address, called for deepening bilateral cooperation with Philippines across diverse sectors and said that there exists immense potential to collaborate in agriculture, climate adaptation, pharmaceutical development, renewable energy, and digital innovation.
He addressed a ceremony marking the 127th Independence Day of the Republic of the Philippines. Representing the Government of Pakistan, the Minister conveyed warm congratulations and best wishes to the Filipino leadership and people on this historic occasion.
He highlighted the Philippines’ remarkable struggle for freedom, hailing it as a symbol of resilience, determination, and national pride. “Today, we celebrate not just your independence, but the enduring values of courage and unity that have shaped your national journey,” he said.
He emphasized the historical depth of bilateral relations between Pakistan and the Philippines, noting that diplomatic ties were established as early as 1949—only two years after Pakistan’s own independence and underscored that this long-standing relationship has evolved into a robust partnership rooted in shared democratic values, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
He particularly emphasized the role of joint research initiatives, public-private partnerships, and institutional exchanges in addressing common global challenges such as food security and climate resilience.
Touching upon trade and economic relations, Rana Tanveer Hussain advocated for greater market integration and business-to-business engagement. “Both our countries stand to benefit from enhanced trade flows, particularly in agri-tech, textiles, processed food, and halal-certified products.
Pakistan welcomes investment from Filipino enterprises and encourages increased participation in trade expos and business delegations,” he stated.
He also celebrated the cultural ties between the two nations, applauding the positive role played by the Filipino community in Pakistan and the growing number of Pakistani professionals, students, and entrepreneurs in the Philippines. “These people-to-people exchanges have built bridges of friendship and fostered cultural harmony,” he added.
Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to constructive diplomacy, the Minister said that the two nations share a common vision for regional stability, multilateral cooperation, and sustainable development. “Our collaboration within ASEAN and other multilateral forums continues to reflect shared priorities and aspirations,” he remarked.
The minister expressed confidence that Pakistan-Philippines relations would continue to grow stronger in the years ahead. He once again extended heartfelt greetings to the Filipino nation on its independence anniversary, wishing continued progress and prosperity.
