PHL Independence Day activities to continue in UK

The Independence Day may be over, but activities marking the occasion will continue in the United Kingdom, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said. An exhibit on Philippine art at the Chelsea Gallery in Central London kicked off the series of activities marking the Independence Day throughout the month of June. “The exhibit, organized by the embassy in cooperation with the Kunst Gallery of the Philippines and the Batangas Association-UK, featured renowned works of award-winning Filipino artists Max Balatbat, Erick Dator, Ronna Manansala, Vincent Christopher Gonzales and Rigor Esguerra," the DFA said in a statement. The DFA said the embassy will continue its celebration of the Philippine independence throughout the rest of June, with several lectures and events commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of national hero Jose Rizal. The embassy and various Filipino organizations in the UK took part in the annual Independence Day Thanksgiving Mass at Our Lady of Victories Church in west London. Westminster auxiliary bishop Rt. Reverend Alan Hopes, the mass’ main celebrant, joined senior embassy officials and Filipino community leaders in solemnly reflecting upon the meaning of freedom, peace, and family to Filipinos. Following the mass, the entire gathering took part in a festive salu-salo featuring traditional Philippine food, dances, and music. On Sunday, June 12, the embassy gave full honors to the Philippine independence, with the raising of the Philippine flag, the recitation of the oath of allegiance, and the singing of the National Anthem at the Chancery grounds before an assembly of distinguished guests, including Senator Lorna Regina “Loren" Legarda. The Independence Day messages of President Benigno Aquino III and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario were read by Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Reynaldo Catapang and Consul General Ma. Theresa Dizon-De Vega, respectively. Catapang also said the Filipino people can always find strength and inspiration from their rich history and heritage when facing adversity, and “Filipinos abroad have a huge role to play in once and for all overcoming the challenges of our country." Legarda later congratulated Filipinos everywhere on Independence Day, but further urged them to cherish and not take for granted their rights, liberties, and freedoms. — JE, GMA News