By Harriet Tornguvan
The Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria, Mersole J. Mellejor, On Sunday the 16th June, 2024, presided over the flag-raising ceremony at the Philippine Embassy in Abuja to mark the proclamation of Philippine independence. The event saw a gathering of Filipino nationals in Nigeria and other African countries, along with their families, friends, and embassy staff.
Messages from key officials such as Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac of the Department of Migrant Workers, Secretary Enrique A. Manalo of the Department of Foreign Affairs, and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. were broadcast to the attendees, extending their best wishes for the celebration.
Ambassador Mellejor emphasized that this year's theme, "Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, and Kasaysayan" (Freedom, Future, and History), pays tribute to the sacrifices of Philippine heroes who secured the nation's freedom.
He highlighted the ongoing commitment of Filipinos to contribute to the nation's development and learn from its historical journey.
Mellejor further noted that the theme reflects the determination of overseas Filipinos to overcome the challenges of living abroad, driven by the hope of a better future for their homeland.
The Ambassador expressed his satisfaction with the unity among Filipinos in Nigeria and the 12 other countries under his jurisdiction, asserting confidence in their collective mission to showcase the best of the Philippines and foster beneficial relationships with host countries through trade, investment, and tourism.
The ambassador also acknowledged the support of honorary consular offices, business sectors, and the governments of host countries like Nigeria and Gabon, expressing optimism about achieving their objectives.
Mellejor congratulated the newly elected Filipino Community Association of Abuja (FCAA) and pledged his commitment to ensuring organizational continuity.
In addition to the flag-raising ceremony, the Philippine Embassy in Nigeria will host a diplomatic reception at the Fraser Suites Abuja on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 he said.
