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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies at Work devider Palestine National Day 2025 in Manila: A historic celebration of solidarity and diplomacy

Palestine National Day 2025 in Manila: A historic celebration of solidarity and diplomacy

Published Dec 15, 2025 03:40 pm
Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa of Korea joins Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Mme. Lee Eun-hwa
Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa of Korea joins Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Mme. Lee Eun-hwa
The Embassy of the State of Palestine in Manila marked a historic milestone with the celebration of Palestine National Day and the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City on Nov. 18, 2025. The gathering was both a commemoration of Palestinian independence and a powerful expression of solidarity, cultural pride, and deepening diplomatic ties.
This year’s celebration coincided with the first-ever visit of a Palestinian Foreign Minister to the Philippines, as Varsen Aghabekian Shahin led the delegation. Her presence underscored the growing political relationship between the two nations, marking the highest-level Palestinian official visit since bilateral relations were established 36 years ago.
Philippine officials, including Senator Robin Padilla and Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Leo M. Herrera-Lim, joined ambassadors, diplomats, and representatives from international organizations in welcoming Shahin. The event highlighted Manila’s role as a partner in strengthening ties with Palestine and supporting its struggle for freedom and dignity.
A heartfelt welcome from Mounir Y.K. Anastas, Ambassador of the State of Palestine, as he opens the event with inspiring remarks
A heartfelt welcome from Mounir Y.K. Anastas, Ambassador of the State of Palestine, as he opens the event with inspiring remarks
Palestinian Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Mounir Y.K. Anastas emphasized the dual significance of the occasion: celebrating Palestinian independence while also observing the UN-designated International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The presence of the UN flag and representatives such as Khalid Hassan, director of the ILO Country Office for the Philippines, reinforced the global dimension of the gathering.
In his remarks, Ambassador Anastas expressed gratitude to Philippine officials, members of the diplomatic corps, media, and sponsors who made the evening possible. He noted the somber tone of the celebration, explaining the absence of traditional elements such as a toast, wine, or cake due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine. “The ceasefire is a good thing that we appreciate, but it is fragile. And with the ceasefire, the problems are not over,” he said, adding, “Inshallah, next year.”
Director Khalid Hassan of ILO Country Office for the Philippines, Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Leo Herrera-Lim, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps. Papal Nuncio Archbishop Charles John Brown III
Director Khalid Hassan of ILO Country Office for the Philippines, Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Leo Herrera-Lim, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps. Papal Nuncio Archbishop Charles John Brown III
Despite the solemn atmosphere, the event showcased Palestinian culture and resilience. Guests enjoyed performances by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, including Vision of Peace by Atlan and Voices, Bethlehem’s Voice, a variation on the traditional Palestinian theme Wayna Araballah.
The buffet featured authentic Palestinian dishes such as Makloubeh, Malfouf, and Misakhan, offering attendees a taste of Palestine’s rich culinary heritage. Ambassador Anastas proudly highlighted Makloubeh as a uniquely Palestinian dish, while noting Malfouf’s shared roots across the Middle East.
The celebration symbolized more than cultural exchange—it marked a turning point in Philippines-Palestine relations. The presence of high-ranking officials and international representatives reflected a shared commitment to advancing diplomatic cooperation and supporting the Palestinian people’s aspirations for peace, dignity, and self-determination.
Ambassador Mariomassimo Santoro of the Embassy of the European Union; Ambassador David Bruce Hartman of the Embassy of Canada
Ambassador Mariomassimo Santoro of the Embassy of the European Union; Ambassador David Bruce Hartman of the Embassy of Canada
A moment of friendship and diplomacy: Senator Robin Padilla with Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin and Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas
A moment of friendship and diplomacy: Senator Robin Padilla with Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin and Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Ambassador Vladislava Iordanova
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Ambassador Vladislava Iordanova
Dusan Ropret joins Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Ambassador Dr. Smiljana Knez of Slovenia at the embassy gathering
Dusan Ropret joins Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Ambassador Dr. Smiljana Knez of Slovenia at the embassy gathering
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Ambassador Dr. Asima Rabbani of Pakistan
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Ambassador Mounir Y.K. Anastas, and Ambassador Dr. Asima Rabbani of Pakistan
In her speech, Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin declared “Solidarity with Palestine means affirming the value of every life, celebrating a heritage that occupation can never erase, and holding fast to the hope of a free, sovereign Palestine living in peace with its neighbors.”
Undersecretary Leo M. Herrera-Lim echoed this commitment, stating: “The Philippines proudly joins the international community in commemorating the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian people. Our support for the two-state solution has never wavered, for we firmly believe that genuine and enduring peace will not prevail in the Middle East without the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian state. As a partner, pathfinder, and peacemaker, the Philippines stands shoulder to shoulder with the Palestinian people.”
As the evening drew to a close, the absence of celebratory rituals served as a poignant reminder of the on-going challenges faced by Palestinians. Yet, the gathering in Manila stood as a testament to solidarity, resilience, and hope for a future where peace and justice prevail.
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