On the occasion of the 126th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence and the 22nd Anniversary of the Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day, the Philippine Embassy held a reception last Wednesday that brought together numerous guests and a large number of members of the Philippine community in Madrid. In his welcoming speech, the Philippine Ambassador, Philippe Jones Lhuillier, pointed out that "for more than 300 years, the two countries have shared the past and, more importantly, we also lay the path to make the future." After highlighting the good relations between Spain and the Philippines in sectors such as "business, institutions, politics and security", the ambassador pointed out that "Philippine companies have made important investments in Madrid and in Spain, especially in the real estate sector. Likewise, Spanish companies are doing the same in the Philippines, especially in transport and energy. I invite Spanish companies to be our partners in all areas, as well as in sectors such as tourism," he said. After announcing the upcoming visit of King Felipe VI to his country, the Philippine ambassador expressed his desire to take advantage of this visit to increase "tourism exchange between the two countries. The time is now." Next, the Secretary of State for Foreign and Global Affairs, Diego Martínez Belío, took the floor. Referring to the protagonists of the achievement of Philippine independence, he said: "Today, we unite with respect for those men and women who fought for their freedom and their ideals. "For more than three centuries, the Secretary of State continued, our cultures intertwined, creating a shared heritage that manifests itself in our traditions, language and customs. This celebration not only recognises our common past, but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations in the present and for the future." "Bilateral relations between Spain and the Philippines are excellent, founded on a shared history and culture, the imprint of which is still perceptible. The establishment of diplomatic relations between Spain and the Philippines dates back to 1947, with the signing of the Treaty of Friendship between the two countries. That is why, also this year, we commemorate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations." "We are going to work with determination in the coming months," concluded Diego Martínez Belío, "to boost high-level measures between Spain and the Philippines, as well as investments and bilateral trade." Ambassador Philippe Jones Lhuillier welcomed the guests. A special guest, Isabel Preysler, attracted the attention of all those present. From left to right: the ambassadors of Oman, Iran, the Chargé d'Affaires of Afghanistan, Mohammad Rahim, the ambassador of Korea and his daughter, Sean Bahk. The ambassadors of Ukraine and Germany. Guests enjoyed a fashion show of Philippine Couture by Hector Gellangarin.
