Following are official greetings from the two senior federal cabinet ministers:
Minister Kenney issues statement on Philippine Independence Day
Ottawa, June 12, 2015
June 12, 2015 – Ottawa, Ontario
The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister for Multiculturalism, issued the following statement celebrating Philippine Independence Day:
“Today marks the 117th anniversary of Philippine Independence after over 300 years of Spanish colonial rule. For Canadians of Filipino descent this is a day to celebrate their national heroes, such as Jose Rizal, as well as their cultural heritage.
“Canada and the Philippines have a long history of people-to-people and cultural ties. For several years, the Philippines have been one of the top three source countries of newcomers to Canada. Canada’s Filipino community is an integral part of our society.
“This past month, we were especially proud to welcome the President of the Philippines, Benigno Aquino III, to Canada. It was the first state visit by a Filipino president since 1997, and included events with Canada’s Filipino community.
“As Minister for Multiculturalism, I extend my best wishes for a happy Philippine Independence Day. And I urge all Canadians to learn about this important day and the contributions of the Filipino community.
“Mabuhay!”
Minister Nicholson Marks Philippine Independence Day
June 12, 2015 – Ottawa, Ontario – Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
The Honourable Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for Niagara Falls, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today released the following statement:
“Today, I join all Canadians of Philippine origin and Filipinos around the world in celebrating the 117th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence.
“Canada is proud to have a strong and expanding bilateral relationship with the Philippines. Our ties are built on a solid foundation of nearly 700,000 people of Philippine origin who now call Canada home.
“The bilateral relationship between our two countries is further strengthened through our cooperation across a range of mutual interests, including security, regional and global issues, development and disaster relief.
“As we celebrate today, Canada is proud to be a friend to the Philippines, a country with which we share the values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law.”
