The Philippine Embassy in the Kingdom of Bahrain commemorated the 127th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence with a grandiose diplomatic reception at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Manama on 18 June 2025.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including high-ranking government officials from Bahrain, ambassadors, industry leaders, and other notable members of the community.
Her Excellency Anne Jalando-on Louis, the Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Bahrain, and her spouse, Dr. Gerard Joseph Louis, graciously hosted the commemorative event.
Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest was His Excellency Ambassador Khaled Yousef Al Jalahma, Undersecretary for Political Affairs at Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The evening ceremony was a vivid mixture of celebration and diplomacy that featured an all-male Catholic vocal group from the Magalak Choir on stage. Their powerful performances of the Bahrain and Philippine national anthems inspired the audience, while their harmonious voices echoed a feeling of camaraderie and nationalism.
In her keynote address, Ambassador Louis highlighted the growing bilateral relationship between Bahrain and the Philippines. “Since the establishment of bilateral relations in 1978, Bahrain and the Philippines have been strong partners through cooperation in trade and investment, culture and the arts, skills training, migration, and employment among others.” She also conveyed the Philippines’ support for efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis in the Middle East through dialogue and diplomacy, and to promote peace and stability in the region.
Ceremonial cake-cutting was included in the activity for the night, representing a continued diplomatic tradition that is symbolic of being together and celebrating each other.
Adding a dash of color to the evening’s cultural feast was the 15-minute concert by Lakbai Guitar Duo composed of Mr. Jeffrey Malazo and Ms. Jennifer de Vera, to entertain the audience with their musical genius as they showcased the diversity and vibrancy of the Filipino musical tradition expressed through the versatility of guitar.
Following the formal program, guests gathered for a delightful dinner, where members of the Magalak choir, Mr. Clarence Serquenia Jr. and Mr. Diomedes Matic Jr., serenaded the attendees enhancing the evening’s ambiance.
Consul Jess Bryan T. Baguio of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Welfare Office, Juvilyn Anns Gumabay, Officer-in-Charge of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), along with embassy staff, joined the ceremony. Capt. Noel Escalona, the Senior National Representative of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to the Combined Maritime Forces (AFPSNR to CMF), was also present.
The event was also attended by embassy partners, cultural stakeholders, and community leaders, all of whom contributed to the evening’s atmosphere of unity, pride, and celebration.
