Poland's Constitution Day was celebrated in Manila on May 6, marking the 234th anniversary of the adoption of the May 3rd Constitution of 1791. Organized by the Polish Embassy, the event was attended by various dignitaries, including officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Apostolic Nuncio, and representatives from other embassies, at the Fairmont Hotel.

Chargé d'Affaires Adam Dyszlewski in his message highlighted the importance of the occasion.

“To me, the very essence of Constitution Day is respect for those who think differently, and understanding their freedom in a way, that limits the freedom of others, as little as possible. Truly, that is the essence of a united Europe: In varietate concordia — united in diversity. Both the Constitution and the European Union are fundamentally designed to protect citizens from domination by those who are stronger and more powerful,” he said.

Dyszlewski added “Democracy, the rule of law, the protection of human rights, the welfare state—these are all values the European Union has delivered to its nearly 450 million citizens. Above all, the European integration project has brought about the longest period of peace and stability in the history of its member states—now threatened by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. That is why the motto of Poland’s presidency in the European Council is ‘security Europe’. The presidency which we will soon handover to our friends and allies from Denmark.”

The Dyszlewski likewise expressed his happiness and appreciation that Poland and the Philippines share common values and a commitment to the principles of the rule of law and respect for all nations.

“I could also speak at length about what Poland and the Philippines have achieved in terms of trade and defense cooperation, with Polish-made Black Hawk and Sokół helicopters now serving here in the Philippines — but that would surely extend my speech by another 10 minutes, so, no, not tonight. However, my speech would not be complete without expressing my gratitude for the contribution of the nearly 30,000 Filipinos living in Poland, who enrich our society every day. And for that, I say thank you.” he said.

Concluding his speech with a toast and and wished for good health and well-being of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and prosperity and happiness of all the Filipino people.

The gathering was supported by DADS Moving Company, Honorary Consulate of Pampanga and Palawan, International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), Jacky’s Catering, Oleo Fats, OneMark Engineering Technologies, Polish Investment and Trade Agency, R&F Sound System, Raffles and Fairmont Hotel, Reachmore, Smak Kielbasy, Spiderhook, Turkish Airlines, and University of Makati.