SEOUL, 11 JUNE 2024 - Philippine Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Theresa Dizon-De Vega hosted a diplomatic reception on 11 June 2024 at the Crystal Ballroom of Lotte Hotel in Seoul in celebration of the 126th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence. The event, also held in a milestone year celebrating the 75th anniversary of Philippines - Korea relations, had 400 guests from the Korean government, diplomatic corps, international organizations, the business community, academe, and civil society.

In her remarks, Ambassador Dizon-De Vega reaffirmed the historic, vibrant, and forward-looking partnership by recounting not only the shared values and ideals of both nations but also the milestone policy mechanisms and initiatives that make for a comprehensive and all-encompassing partnership.

The Ambassador said, "Our steadfast position on the primacy of the rule of law in international engagement and a longstanding commitment to multilateralism serve as guideposts, as we work with Korea in peace-building and ensuring prosperity through dialogue and constructive engagement. These values evolve with the challenges and opportunities of our times. And so it is with the Philippines, as we likewise embrace the values of inclusion, multiculturalism, sustainability, and concern for vulnerable sectors whether in our own country or globally. As we continue on the path towards lasting peace and sustainable development, Korea remains a steadfast partner through more than seven decades."

First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kim Hong Kyun, as the Guest of Honor, paid tribute to the heroism of Dr. Jose Rizal by quoting the line "I die just when I see the dawn break/Through the gloom of night, to herald the day" from Mi Ultimo Adios, referring to the Philippines' freedom hard fought and won 126 years ago. He acknowledged the shared values of the Philippines and the Republic of Korea and particularly lauded the inroads of the relations in trade through the PH-ROK FTA, defense cooperation, infrastructure, and labor and migration.

Other leaders in government and pioneers of the Korean business community, including Rep. Marissa "Del Mar" Magsino of the OFW party-list, Rep. Na Kyung Won of the ROK National Assembly, and Chairman Chang Dae Hwan of the Maekyung Media Group were also in attendance.

In celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Korea, a friend of the Philippines and popular Korean actor Seo In Guk and the first award-winning Filipino boy band trained in Korea, Hori7on, shared their congratulatory messages for the 126th anniversary of PH independence, the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, and stronger PH-ROK relations on stage. Strong people-to-people ties in culture and the arts are a major driver of our relations.

To celebrate South Korea being the number 1 source of inbound tourist arrivals to the Philippines in 2023, the Philippine Embassy and the Department of Tourism (DOT) office in Korea held a lucky draw where five (5) winners were given roundtrip tickets and premium accommodations to popular destinations such as Clark, Cebu, and Bohol. These choice destinations not only promote niche tourism activities favored by Koreans such as golf and diving but likewise offer quality island experiences that support sustainable tourism. The Embassy acknowledged the support of the PDOT-Seoul and the contributions of Philippine Airlines, Hyatt Regency, Okada Manila, and Blue Water Resorts.

The Male Ensemble Philippines (MEn), a group of versatile male singers from the Philippine Madrigal Singers Company of artists, serenaded the guests with a medley of Filipino, Korean, and International songs. Their moving rendition of the Korean national anthem was also received with praise from Korean guests.

Guests also had the opportunity to try a range of Filipino food including pork sisig and chicken adobo and tropical fruits such as premium bananas, pineapples, and papaya. Guests also took home gift boxes containing 75th-anniversary tokens and souvenirs, Filipino snacks, and information materials on choice Philippine vacation destinations. END