Commemorating 47 years: Iran and PH forge stronger bonds
Agriculture Undersecretary Zamzamin Ampatuan, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Leo Herrera-Lim, Ambassador Yousef Esmaeil Zadeh, Apostolic Nuncio Charles Brown and Commission on Filipinos Overseas Undersecretary Atty. Arlene S. Borja
The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Philippines commemorated the 47th Anniversary of the Victory of the Islamic Revolution with a National Day reception on Feb. 10 at the Dusit Thani Hotel’s Mayuree 1 Hall. The event was graced by distinguished guests including Undersecretary for Policy of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Leo Herrera Lim, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Archbishop Charles John Brown, ambassadors, diplomats, and high-ranking Philippine officials.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Yousef Esmaeil Zadeh paid tribute to Imam Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic, and to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during the revolution. He emphasized that despite challenges in recent years, Iran has persevered through unity and resilience, continuing to uphold the principles of dignity, wisdom, and expediency in its foreign policy under the guidance of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian.
The Ambassador delivers his message with DFA Undersecretary Leo Herrera-Lim and Archbishop Charles Brown at the background
Ambassador Zadeh highlighted the trials Iran faced in 2025 and early 2026, and noted that the Iranian people, through sacrifice and steadfastness, defended national sovereignty and added another chapter to Iran’s proud history.
The ambassador expressed optimism about the growing partnership between Iran and the Philippines. He cited the eighth round of political consultations and the seventh round of consular consultations held in Tehran in 2025 as milestones in the deepening relationship. He conveyed confidence that 2026 would bring further cooperation in areas of mutual interest, praising the constructive role of the Philippine government and Department of Foreign Affairs.
DFA Undersecretary Leo Herrera-Lim delivers his message
Ambassador Zadeh also congratulated the Philippines on assuming the chairmanship of ASEAN in 2026, expressing confidence that the country’s leadership would further strengthen the regional bloc’s position in promoting peace and cooperation.
The ambassador concluded his speech with a resounding affirmation of friendship:“Long live Iran. Long live the Philippines. Long live the strong relations between Iran and the Philippines.”
Entrance of Mayuree 1 Ballroom, Dusit Thani Hotel with Iranian handicrafts on display on the sides