BERLIN – On July 2, 2025, the Philippine Embassy in Berlin hosted a commemorative reception at the Waldorf Astoria in celebration of the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence. Ambassador Irene Susan B. Natividad welcomed a distinguished gathering of local and international dignitaries, including former Foreign Affairs Secretary and Ambassador to Germany, Delia Domingo Albert, who was honored as a special guest.
The celebration paid tribute to a historic milestone: June 12, 1898, when General Emilio Aguinaldo declared Philippine independence from Spanish colonial rule in Kawit, Cavite, establishing the country as the first republic in Asia. Although sovereignty was later delayed due to American colonization until 1946, the date remains a cornerstone of national identity. Since 1962, June 12 has been officially recognized as Independence Day, marked annually by patriotic ceremonies and international commemorations by Philippine embassies worldwide.
“Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.”: A Global Message of Freedom
In her keynote address, Ambassador Natividad echoed the national theme: Freedom. Future. History. She emphasized that these ideals transcend borders and resonate globally, particularly with democratic partners like Germany, which shares the Philippines’ commitment to freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.
“Despite the challenges of natural disasters, conflict, and political storms,” she stated, “the Filipino nation remains steadfast in working with international partners to promote peace, security, and development.”
Ambassador Irene Susan B. Natividad
A Strong and Evolving Partnership with Germany
The Philippines and Germany mark 70 years of diplomatic relations this year. High-level visits and strategic dialogues have strengthened cooperation in areas such as:
- Climate action and renewable energy
- Regional and global security
- Trade and investment
- Labor mobility and science & technology
- Culture and tourism
In March, Philippine officials took part in Germany’s Petersberg Climate Dialogue and Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue, presenting initiatives to increase the country’s renewable energy share to 50% by 2040. Germany has already committed $6.7 billion in offshore wind energy investments in the Philippines. German energy firms also recently visited Manila under the Energy Solutions – Made in Germany program.
In May, the Philippines’ Defense Secretary joined the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting in Berlin, resulting in a bilateral cooperation agreement with Germany covering cybersecurity, training, logistics, and UN operations.
These developments reflect the Philippines’ aspirations for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027–2028, where it pledges to advocate for conflict prevention, civilian protection, and inclusive peacebuilding—drawing on its experiences in Mindanao.
Filipino Stories on the Global Stage
Looking ahead, the Philippines will serve as Guest of Honor at the Frankfurter Buchmesse 2025, the world’s largest book fair. With the theme “The Imagination Peoples the Air,” the Philippine Pavilion will showcase the country’s rich storytelling tradition drawn from 7,641 islands, 114 million people, and over 180 languages.
“This is a rare and powerful opportunity,” said Ambassador Natividad, “to bring our narratives—the struggles of identity, the pursuit of justice, the hopes of a people—into a global conversation.”
The Filipino diaspora in Germany, now numbering 35,000, is central to this story. Their lives embody the resilience, excellence, and hope that define the Philippine spirit—offering narratives that inspire, empower, and build bridges across cultures.
Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo Albert
An Invitation to Dialogue and Discovery
As the Philippines continues to build political, economic, and cultural partnerships with Germany and the world, its Independence Day celebration in Berlin served as both a tribute to history and a call for deeper collaboration.
“Let us continue working together,” Ambassador Natividad urged, “to foster shared values, understanding, and peace across borders.”
With stories, ideas, and partnerships, the Philippines stands ready to engage – honoring its past, celebrating its present, and shaping a future of freedom and cooperation. (hz) – Photo: AT/hz