During a special ceremony at Princess Wilhelmina Park, the Filipino community in Aruba commemorated the 128th anniversary of Philippine independence. The event was attended by Prime Minister Mike Eman, Minister Rene Herdé, Minister Mervin Wyatt-Ras, Minister Wendrick Cicilia, representatives from Parliament, the Consular Corps, local authorities, the Filipino community, and other guests.
The program included the raising of the flags of Aruba and the Philippines, the singing of the national anthems “Aruba Dushi Tera” and “Lupang Hinirang”, a wreath-laying ceremony, a spiritual message, official speeches, cultural performances, the crowning of beauty queens, and special recognition awards.
In his speech, Prime Minister Mike Eman expressed, on behalf of the Government and people of Aruba, deep appreciation for the Filipino community and its valuable contribution to our society.
Eman indicated that this independence celebration took place during a time of mixed emotions, as it also marked the recent loss of beloved members of the Filipino community. According to the Prime Minister, moments like these remind us of how fragile life is, but also how important it is to seek meaning, faith, and purpose in our existence.
Prime Minister Eman described the Filipino people as an inspiration to the world, highlighting how a nation formed by many islands manages to maintain a shared sense of destiny, identity, and purpose.
Eman expressed special gratitude to the Filipino community in Aruba for the sincere way they have integrated into Aruban society. He highlighted their contribution to the healthcare sector, where many Filipino nurses and professionals provide care, comfort, and hope during difficult times for Aruban families.
He also mentioned the important role the Filipino community plays in the hospitality sector, contributing daily to the success of Aruba’s tourism, as well as in other sectors of the economy and community, including entrepreneurship, innovation, and service.
A special moment in his speech was his appreciation for the performance of “Aruba Dushi Tera” by members of the Filipino community, which according to Eman, was a moving demonstration of their love and respect for Aruba.
Prime Minister Eman paid tribute to Honorary Consul General Ami Henriquez-Mendez for her leadership, love, and dedication to the Filipino community in Aruba.
At the conclusion of his message, Eman emphasized that the Filipino community has become an integral part of Aruba’s social fabric. According to Eman, the faith, solidarity, talent, and human warmth of the Filipino community help build a stronger Aruba.
“We love you, we appreciate you, and we will continue to build the future of Aruba together,” Prime Minister Mike Eman expressed.
The celebration was a moment of unity, gratitude, and recognition of the strong bonds between Aruba and the Filipino community, reaffirming the importance of coexistence, respect, and mutual contribution in our multicultural society.
