(Santiago, 12 June 2020) – The Philippine Embassy commemorates the 122nd Anniversary of Philippine Independence (Kalayaan 2020) with the theme ´´Tungo sa Bansang Malaya, Nagbabayanihan at Ligtas´´. A flag raising was held inside the chancery because of inclement weather. Embassy officers and staff, while observing safety protocols participated in the ceremony. The Independence Day Message of the President was read by Ambassador Daza, followed by SFA´s Message read by DCM Punzalan. A simple cutting and sharing of the Independence Day cake followed.
To celebrate Philippine Independence, the Philippine Embassy and members of Filipino community also participated in a virtual mass on 13 June 2020, officiated by Father Victoriano Caritos, Filipino priest at the Iglesia Del Carmen in Providencia. In his sermon, Father Vic reminded all of the significance of June 12 and the Philippine flag. The virtual mass was followed by a virtual exchange of experiences between the Philippine Embassy and some leaders/members of the Filipino community. Moderated by Consul Briones the program started with a video entitled Just Believe. Ambassador Daza then spoke of how the attributes of present day heroes, front liners in our health workers contribute to the development of the nation. She emphasized the importance of competence, commitment, compassion, and concrete action to community and nation building. The Ambassador´s remarks was followed by the sharing of experiences aimed at highlighting best practices of coping with the pandemic and the extended quarantine in Chile. Prayers, observance of safety and health protocols, connecting with family and friends, productive use of time, positive thinking were among those mentioned in the exchange. The program ended with another video on “We Heal as One “.
The Philippine Embassy this June also commenced food assistance to Filipinos who have lost their job and income due to the extended quarantine in Chile. This food support consisting of essential food items ( rice, oil, sugar, milk, juice, canned goods , among others) vitamin C, masks, prioritizes and targets more vulnerable Filipinos including those pregnant, with children, are sick or with medical condition. END
