Philippines marks 128 Years, becomes Fiji's 30th resident mission

The Philippines marked its 128th Independence Day in Suva last night, celebrating a historic first — the establishment of its resident embassy in Fiji, making it the 30th resident diplomatic mission in the country.

Philippine Ambassador to Fiji Noel Mangaoang Novicio hosted a diplomatic reception at the Holiday Inn. Among the guests were Chief Justice Salesi Temo, Pacific Islands Forum Secretary-General Baron Waqa, Assistant Minister Lenora Qereqeretabua, Roko Tui Dreketi Ro Teimumu Kepa and members of the diplomatic corps.

Mr Novicio said the opening of the embassy, after 53 years of Philippines–Fiji diplomatic relations, marked a long-overdue milestone.

“The opening of the embassy demonstrates the Philippines’ commitment to deepening its engagement with Fiji and other countries in the Pacific region,” he said.

Fiji’s Chief of Protocol Kiti Temo welcomed the Philippines as the newest resident mission, saying the embassy marked “the beginning of an exciting new chapter” in bilateral relations.

The ambassador said the embassy would provide a stronger platform for diplomatic cooperation, economic engagement, labour mobility, health cooperation and consular services for more than 1000 Filipinos living and working in Fiji — many in healthcare, education, construction and other skilled sectors.

Philippine Independence Day, known as Araw ng Kalayaan, is observed annually on June 12, commemorating the country’s proclamation of independence from Spain in 1898.

The reception was held in a sombre tone, with both countries acknowledging a powerful earthquake that struck Mindanao in southern Philippines on June 8.

“Fiji stands in solidarity with the Philippines during this difficult time,” Mr Temo said.

One of the earliest Filipinos in Fiji, Dr Virgilio de Asa — director of Nasese Private Hospital — who first arrived on September 22, 1976, was also acknowledged at the event, marking his 50th year of contribution to the country.

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