Geneva celebrates the 119th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence
Geneva, 9 June 2017 – In celebration of the 119th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, H. E. Evan P. Garcia, Permanent Representative of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Nations and other International Organizations and Mr. Arnel Sanchez, Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. of the Philippine Mission to the World Trade Organization, welcomed members of the diplomatic corps, heads of the various international organizations, United Nations officials, and Filipino community leaders from the cantons of Geneva and Vaud to a reception held on 09 June 2017 at the Atrium, World Trade Organization Headquarters in Geneva.
In his remarks, Ambassador Garcia emphasized the country’s commitment with its engagement with the global community, and recognized that multilateralism promotes national peace and progress through enhanced global security, stability, opportunity, equity and balance.
The ambassador also expressed pride in the work of the UN member states, all the UN agencies and international organizations in Geneva. “Our collective endeavours in Geneva encompasses the most critical challenges of our time. These include climate change, environmental degradation, the threat of bigger and more frequent disasters, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the risks of nuclear war, narrowing the gap between the richest and the poorest economies, making economic growth inclusive, global pandemics, managing refugee crises, promoting decent work, enhancing global migration governance and upholding the human rights of all the world’s people.”
The reception was also an opportunity to showcase Philippine cuisine to International Geneva Filipino staple fare such as chicken adobo, pancit bihon, lumpia, and ube cake delighted the palette of over 350 guests in attendance.
These were complemented by Philippine spirits from Destileria Limtuaco and the world-renowned San Miguel beer. Guests were delighted with the “Philippine mojito” mix that was perfect for the warm summer evening.
The diplomatic reception was a joint collaboration of the Philippine Mission to the United Nations and Other International Organizations, the Philippine Mission to the World Trade Organization, with the support of the Departments of Trade and Industry, Agriculture, and Labor and Employment through their representatives in Geneva.
The Philippine Missions in Geneva look forward to supporting the celebrations of Philippine Independence throughout the month of June across the cantons of Geneva and Vaud. END