The Philippine Embassy in Switzerland, hosted a diplomatic reception to commemorate the 126th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on 12 June 2024 on the Embassy grounds in Berne. Around 85 guests from the diplomatic corps, the Swiss federal government, business community, and academe and partner organizations of the Embassy attended the event.
In his remarks, PH Ambassador Bernard Faustino M. Dy expressed pride in the patriotic fervor of Filipinos, both past and present, in fighting for and preserving the independence of the Philippines. He stressed the Philippines’ strong adherence to a rules-based order and international law in upholding territorial integrity and national sovereignty. The Ambassador continued, “We remain steadfast in our position in dialoguing and engaging others peacefully, fairly and sincerely. Our foreign policy is fully anchored on our desire to uphold peace, stability, and prosperity, not just within the confines of our territory, but in the rest of the world. We aspire for the Filipino people to live in peace and prosperity not just back home but anywhere in the world.”
Guests were entertained with renditions of “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” (Philippines, My Philippines) and “Isang Lahi” (One Race) by Swiss-based Filipino singer and The Voice of Switzerland 2020 semi-finalist Cecile Centeno. The event also featured an ingenious menu of Filipino-European fusion food prepared by 25-year-old Filipino chef Ken Rojas and his team from the Neo-Pinoy kitchen of Amandine Cafe based in Zürich. END
PH Ambassador to Switzerland Bernard Faustino M. Dy delivers his remarks during the diplomatic reception hosted by the Embassy
Swiss-based Filipino singer and The Voice of Switzerland 2020 semi-finalist Cecile Centeno performs Pilipinas Kong Mahal.
Ambassador Dy greets Ambassador Heinrich Hellenberg, Head of the Asia Pacific Division of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, as Deputy Head of Mission Maria Anna Lilia de Vera-Schinazi looks on.
Ambassador Dy gives a toast on the 126th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence.
Guests from the diplomatic corps, the Swiss federal government, business community, and academe and the Embassy’s partners enjoying the outdoor reception.
Filipino Chef Ken Rojas and his team from the Neo-Pinoy kitchen of Amandine Cafe served Filipino-European fusion food and wines from Weingärtli vineyard co-owned by Filipina winemaker Erlita Terte and Beat Zimmermann.
Ambassador Dy with personnel of the Philippine Embassy in Bern.
