It was a colourful Sunday morning as the Philippine Embassy in Abuja marked the commemoration of Philippine independence with a flag-raising ceremony led by Ambassador Mersole J. Mellejor. The event gathered Filipino nationals from Nigeria and other African countries, along with their families, friends, and embassy staff.
Key messages from 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, offering their well-wishes to the Filipino community.
Ambassador Mellejor highlighted this year’s theme, “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, and Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, and History), which honors the sacrifices of Philippine heroes and underscores the ongoing commitment of Filipinos to national progress.
Mellejor noted that the theme reflects the resilience and determination of overseas Filipinos who face the challenges of life abroad for a better future.
Mellejor expressed his satisfaction with the unity among Filipinos in Nigeria and the 12 other countries under his jurisdiction. He voiced confidence in the collective mission of the Philippine Embassy in Abuja and the Filipino diaspora to promote the Philippines and foster beneficial relations with host countries through trade, investment, and tourism.
“I have no doubt that with our partners – the honorary consular offices, business sector, and the governments of host countries like Nigeria and Gabon – we will achieve our objectives,” Mellejor stated.
Additionally, the Ambassador congratulated the newly elected Filipino Community Association of Abuja (FCAA) and pledged his commitment to ensuring continuity within the organization. He extended gratitude to friends and supporters from Nigeria and other countries.
The Philippine Embassy in Nigeria will further celebrate with a diplomatic reception at Fraser Suites Abuja on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, he said
