How can Filipinos abroad best honor their homeland? Senator Jinggoy Estrada believes the answer lies in unity and pride.
Speaking to a crowd of around 15,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) at the “Sandiwa Fiesta Sa Europa” in Milan, Italy, Estrada emphasized the importance of showing the world their love for the Philippines as they wrapped up the month-long commemoration of the country’s 126th Independence Day.
Celebrating Independence
“Sa paggunita ng ating Kalayaan ngayon araw, ipakita natin ang pagkakaisa nating mga Filipino. Ipagmalaki natin ang ating lahi, at ipakita natin sa buong mundo ang tapang at pagmamahal natin sa ating inang bayan,”
Estrada stated.
He stressed that Filipinos should be proud of their heritage and showcase their courage and love for their motherland.
Government’s Commitment
Estrada highlighted the Philippine government’s ongoing efforts under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to address various challenges, including the territorial dispute with China in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
“Gaya ng paulit-ulit na pahayag ng ating Pangulo, Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., tungkol dito, sinisiguro na hindi natin hahayaang mawalan ng saysay ang pinaglaban ng ating mga ninuno,” he said,
referencing the government’s commitment to uphold the country’s sovereignty and the victory in the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
The senator reassured that the government will continue to employ peaceful and diplomatic methods to resolve disputes in the WPS.
“Ang West Philippine Sea ay atin at ipaglalaban natin ito. Hindi lamang ito parte ng ating territory, bahagi rin ito ng pagkilalan at soberanya,” Estrada affirmed.
Unity and Solidarity
Consul General Elmer Cato praised the unity and solidarity among Filipinos in Italy and Europe, showcased through the Independence Day celebrations.
“Narito rin tayo para dinggin ang panawagan ng ating mahal na pangulo, si President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr., para magka-isa at magtulungan ang sambayanang Pilipino para maitayo natin ang isang bagong Pilipinas,”
Cato stated.
The event, organized by the Kalayaan 2024 Organizing Committee of the Bayanihan Council of Northern Italy, featured performances, including the MassKara dancers of Bacolod City.
Other activities included the Kalayaan Ball, Kalayaan Run, and the Mutya ng Kalayaan 2024 pageant.
Embracing Heritage and Future
Filipinos abroad play a crucial role in preserving and promoting their cultural heritage. By staying united and proud, they contribute significantly to the nation’s identity and international image.
Senator Estrada’s call to action serves as a reminder that every Filipino, regardless of where they are in the world, has a role in shaping the future of the Philippines.
Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency.
