On October 14, 2025, the Embassy of Hungary in Manila hosted a vibrant and heartfelt celebration of Hungary’s National Day at Shangri-La The Fort, commemorating the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and War of Independence. The evening unfolded as a tribute to freedom, democracy, and the enduring friendship between Hungary and the Philippines, a bond that continues to reach new heights.

In his keynote address, Speaker of the National Assembly of Hungary László Kövér honored the legacy of the 1956 revolution and its relevance to both nations. “On Oct. 23, 1956, the Hungarian people stood up for their freedom, national sovereignty, and democracy,” he said. “Although the revolution failed, history did not stand still: in 1989, Hungary was the first of the Central European countries to peacefully open the way to the full restoration of freedom and democracy. For us, these dates stand as a reminder that freedom is not a single achievement, but a continuous struggle.”

Speaker Kövér drew powerful parallels between Hungarian and Filipino histories, emphasizing that “the sacrifice made for freedom is not merely a political struggle, but—above all—the protection of national identity and the future of the community.” He added, “Although oceans separate us geographically, the struggle for freedom still connects us.”

Hungarian Ambassador to the Philippines Titanilla Tóth welcomed guests with a message of unity and celebration. “It is a historic night—historic in many ways,” she said. “Two proud democracies, one in Europe and one in Southeast Asia, have found each other as true friends and partners. Hungary and the Philippines share not only a belief in democracy, but also a deep respect for peace, dialogue, and mutual understanding.”

Ambassador Tóth highlighted the growing cooperation between the two nations in education, culture, trade, and labor. She cited the Stipendium Hungaricum program, which enables Filipino scholars to study in Hungary, and recent collaborations in agriculture and climate action. “This partnership is lived and strengthened by our people,” she said.

The evening also celebrated a milestone in Hungarian space exploration. “This year Hungary reached for the stars, literally, as Tibor Kapu became the second Hungarian astronaut to travel into space,” Ambassador Tóth announced. “His journey is a powerful symbol—in friendship between Hungary and the Philippines, too, the sky is the limit.”

Guests were treated to a rich cultural program featuring the “csárdás,” Hungary’s iconic folk dance performed by dancers in traditional costume alongside the internationally acclaimed Flaska Band. Hungarian culinary delights such as gulyás soup, chimney cake, and fine wine added flavor to the celebration.

The embassy also launched the second edition of “Hindi Pasisiil ang Pagsibol,” a Hungarian poetry anthology translated into Philippine languages including Visayan and Ilokano, a literary bridge between the two cultures.

In a moving gesture of solidarity, Speaker Kövér expressed condolences for the victims of the recent Cebu earthquake and announced humanitarian aid. “On behalf of the National Assembly of Hungary, we are donating five million forints, and through the Hungary Helps Programme, another five million forints in emergency aid,” he said. “The Catholic Church also supports those in need with five million HUF.”

As the evening drew to a close, Speaker Kövér offered a blessing: “May God bless the Hungarian and Filipino peoples and give us wisdom, courage, and strength to build a common future.”