The Czech Embassy in Manila hosted a vibrant reception in celebration of Czech National Day on September 29 at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati, marking the anniversary of the founding of independent Czechoslovakia in 1918. The event, attended by diplomats, government officials, cultural partners, and members of the Czech and Filipino communities, highlighted the enduring friendship and expanding cooperation between the Czech Republic and the Philippines.

Ambassador Karel Hejč, in his keynote address, opened with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the Czech Republic’s recent sporting triumph at the World Men’s Volleyball Championship held in Manila. “Against all odds and paper predictions,” he said, “the Czech team made it through to the bronze medal game, ultimately finishing fourth in the world—our best result since 1970.” He credited the “small yet mighty and very loud Czech community” for their passionate support, noting how such moments “bring our nations closer through shared pride, hospitality, and mutual respect.”

The ambassador reflected on the historical significance of Czech National Day, emphasizing that the birth of Czechoslovakia was “not only a political milestone but also a statement of our enduring national identity.” He reaffirmed the Czech Republic’s commitment to democracy, human rights, and international cooperation, values that resonate deeply with its Filipino partners.

“Although our nations are far apart geographically,” Hejč noted, “our relationship has deep and unique roots.”

Ambassador Hejč highlighted the growing economic and social ties between the two countries. Czech companies are increasingly finding opportunities in the Philippines, while a rising number of Filipino workers are choosing to build their careers in the Czech Republic.

“Their contribution is deeply valued,” he said, “not only by Czech employers who recognize their talent, discipline, and reliability, but also by the communities in which they live. We are committed to ensuring that their rights and dignity are protected.”

He also praised the Philippines’ principled stance on international issues, including its support for Ukraine and its defense of sovereign rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in the South China Sea. “We stand by the principles of peaceful resolution of disputes and respect for a rules-based international order,” he affirmed.

Cultural exchange was another highlight of the evening. Ambassador Hejč shared recent initiatives that have deepened mutual appreciation between the two nations. Among them was the launch of a Bikol-language audiobook of Franz Kafka’s Metamorphosis in Naga City, which will be showcased at the Frankfurt Book Fair, where the Philippines is this year’s guest of honor and the Czech Republic will follow next year.

He also recounted a moving experience at the Cine Europa 28 Film Festival in Tacloban City, where he introduced a Czech film that resonated deeply with the local audience. “It made me realize,” he said, “that although, as diplomats, we often measure our success by big intergovernmental contracts, it is moments like these that inject us with so much needed energy and help us to march with heads high on a daily basis.”

Before concluding, Ambassador Hejč extended his gratitude to the Czech Embassy team in Manila for their dedication and professionalism. “I am proud to work alongside such an exceptional team,” he said.

Looking ahead, he expressed confidence in the continued growth of Czech-Philippine relations. “I am confident that the ties between the Czech Republic and the Philippines will continue to flourish in the spirit of mutual respect, openness, and shared purpose.”

He closed his address with a warm message to all attendees: “To all our Filipino friends and partners, thank you for walking with us on this shared journey. And to all of you here tonight: Thank you again for joining us on this special day. Maraming salamat po.”