Israel celebrates 75th Independence Day with historic Manila Hotel reception
More than 30,000 Filipinos thrive in Israel as caregivers
Published May 14, 2023 04:08 am
The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines celebrated a historic event on May 4, marking the 75th Independence Day of the State of Israel with a grand reception at the Manila Hotel’s Centennial Hall. This year’s celebration was significant not only for Israel’s milestone anniversary but also for the 65th year of the friendly relationship between Israel and the Philippines.
“I am proud to represent Israel, a country that within 75 years has become a global leader and a source of knowledge, research and development, and innovation and technology,” said Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss in his speech. He also emphasized the significance of the shared values and common history between Israel and the Philippines. He highlighted the open-door policy of former president Manuel Quezon, who offered a safe haven to Jews fleeing the Nazi regime, and the Philippines’ vote in favor of the United Nations Resolution in 1947, which led to the establishment of the Jewish State of Israel.
Fluss also touched on the humanitarian aid extended by Israel to the Philippines during Typhoon Yolanda and Odette, as well as the robust economic and defense cooperation between the two countries. In an interview with reporters during the event, he mentioned that two more Israeli Shaldag Mark 5 ships are set to be formally turned over to the Philippine Navy soon. These two ships are part of the nine vessels contracted by the Philippines from Israel Shipyards Ltd. Aside from defense, the ambassador also expressed his eagerness to continue building bridges between the two nations and to support each other in addressing the challenges of the years to come. He also recognized the Filipino caregivers in Israel—well-loved members of their society—numbering around 30,000, who provide dedicated care for the elderly and disabled people in Israel.
Executive Secretary and retired Chief Justice Lucas Bersamin was the event’s guest of honor. Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Charles Brown, Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos, and Foreign Affairs undersecretary Carlos Sorreta joined him and Ambassador Fluss for the ceremonial toast. Usec. Sorreta gave the speech on behalf of the Philippine government, sharing the importance of PH-Israel ties. Guests were composed of the diplomatic corps, elected officials, the Israeli community, and friends from the public and private sectors.
After the formal part of the event, guests were treated to a performance by Israeli all-female drummer ensemble, Rhythmania. The group, which also held workshops and outreach events at the White Cross Orphanage in San Juan City, Laura Vicuna Foundation, and schools in Makati City, eventually brought the performance from the stage to the dance floor. The national day reception turned into an actual party that might give Tel Aviv’s nightlife scene a run for its money. Israel celebrates its Independence Day or Yom Haatzmaut on April 25 to April 26 on the Hebrew calendar. The Philippines and Israel celebrated 65 years of diplomatic relations on Feb. 26, marking the day the Treaty of Friendship was signed between the Republic of the Philippines and the State of Israel.
South Africa Celebrates Freedom Day
The South African Embassy in Manila celebrated Freedom Day in late April—a momentous occasion that also marked 30 years of diplomatic relations between South Africa and the Philippines. In her speech, Ambassador Radebe-Netshitenzhe noted the theme for this year’s Freedom Month, which was both timely and relevant: “Consolidating and Safeguarding Democratic Gains.”
“Each year, we honor on April 27 those unsung heroes and heroines who fought for our freedom and paved the way for an equal, representative, non-racial South Africa,” the ambassador said. “We are reminded that our freedom was not free. Our road to democracy required untold sacrifices, and many paid the ultimate price for us to be free today.”
During her speech, the ambassador recalled the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1993, followed by the opening of the Philippine Embassy in Pretoria in 1994. She also called for a rules-based multilateral system, respect for international law, and an end to the double standards, unipolar dominance, and “bullying that has resulted in human suffering and disregard of international law.”
Combined trade between the Philippines and South Africa is valued at $3.5 billion and the ambassador looks forward to advancing it. This, as the South African economy remains diversified, proactive, and secure despite the consequences of the pandemic and the global energy crisis.
Ambassador Radebe-Netshitenzhe expressed her commitment to nurturing South Africa’s relationship with the Philippines in economy, trade, cultural, and sports diplomacy. She called for more collaborations on key multilateral and bilateral issues, and South Africa is keen to continue to work with peace-loving individual countries and progressive forces seeking to promote peace.
Ireland puts focus on mental health
On May 3, Irish Ambassador to the Philippines William Carlos opened his home to members of the diplomatic corps, stakeholders, and government officials to discuss the importance of better mental health policies and access to services not just in the Philippines but the world over.
Health undersecretary Beverly Ho discussed projects that the Philippine government is implementing to address the mental health crisis. From educating journalists on how to report sensitively about suicides and other mental-health related stories to providing more access to those in need of mental health services. Philanthropist and businesswoman Rocio Olbes talked about her personal struggles with mental health and the importance of advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community as they are one of the most vulnerable sectors when it comes to mental health issues.
MindYou’s Yuri Marshall shared about their company’s mission to make mental health affordable for Filipinos and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte also shared the city’s successes in addressing mental health issues and providing services that are caring and gender sensitive to her constituents.