MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino yesterday called on the diplomatic corps to help his administration uplift the living conditions of Filipinos and bring them to prosperity.
“Just as our administration has pledged a policy of constructive, responsible engagement with the world, so too do we ask all nations to work with us, to achieve the fullest potential of all our peoples,” Aquino said in this year’s Independence Day reception for foreign diplomats at Malacañang.
Aquino, who is completing his second year in office on June 30, made the call as the country marked its 114th Independence Day.
He noted that now, more than ever, “the Filipino holds his head high” with the achievements his government has made so far. “We mark our freedom at a time of renewed hope and optimism – a time in which the promises of reform and hard work are becoming tangible realities for each and every Filipino,” he declared.
Aquino cited the need for governments to work together in a global context where one cannot prosper without the other, taking into account the “intertwined” nature and interests of nations, whose fullest potential should be achieved through unity.
“In a world where the challenges of today may compel nations to look inwards, let us resolve to work together in amity and in peace,” Aquino said as he offered a toast.
“As a nation, we also desire peace and prosperity for our region and for the rest of the world: the foundation of progress for all,” he stressed, renewing his commitment to work for the country’s good – just like the rest of the world – “so we can realize our shared goals.”
“As we work to bring inclusive prosperity to our people, we are cognizant of this fundamental truth: in an increasingly globalized world, our national destinies are intertwined,” Aquino added.
“Prosperity cannot come in isolation; it requires cooperation, where we solve problems together, and build a dynamic milieu together,” the 52-year-old Chief Executive said, emphasizing the need for nations to help each other.
“To the ingenuity and achievements of the Filipino people, may our countrymen continue to enjoy success in arenas the world over; and to the future of the Philippines – may our combined efforts help us bring our country to even greater heights,” he declared.
For his part, Archbishop Guiseppe Pinto – papal nuncio and dean of the diplomatic corps – renewed the foreign ambassadors’ cordial best wishes for a better Philippines, and bring “prosperity and progress” to the Filipino people.
“The (Philippine) flag symbolizes the founding values of its people including brotherhood, peace, justice, freedom and sovereignty, which (have) all been tested in times of crisis but have remained strong and valid,” he said.
“After more than a century, even in a period of crisis, which extends to most every country in the world, those same ethical and civil principles constitute a sure point of reference in dealing with the political, social and economic challenges emerging not only within the boarders of the Republic but also in the regional and the global milieu,” Pinto added.
Among those present at the traditional vin d’honneur at the Rizal Hall were Vice President Jejomar Binay, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, senators and members of Aquino’s cabinet.
Acting Chief Justice Antonio Carpio was not around but Justice Bienvenido Reyes, who was Aquino’s second appointee to the Supreme Court, was seen in Malacañang yesterday.
Carpio, being the most senior among the Supreme Court magistrates, is among the nominees for the next chief justice to replace Renato Corona, who was unseated following the Senate impeachment court’s guilty verdict on his concealment of cash assets amounting to $2.4 million and P80 million.