PH Embassy in Kenya Marks 127th Philippine Independence Day with Diplomatic Reception in Nairobi
Ambassador Marie Charlotte G. Tang and Guest of Honor Ambassador Patrick S. Wamoto raise a toast to 127 years of Philippine independence.
NAIROBI, 13 June 2025 – The Philippine Embassy in Nairobi commemorated the 127th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence with a diplomatic reception held at the Nairobi Serena Hotel on 12 June 2025. The event served as a vibrant celebration of Filipino culture, history, and the enduring friendship between the Philippines, Kenya, and the broader international community.
The evening brought together guests from the Kenyan government, diplomatic corps, the UN Office at Nairobi, other international organizations, business sector, media, academe, and the Filipino community in Kenya.
In her keynote address, Philippine Ambassador to Kenya Marie Charlotte G. Tang paid tribute to the nation’s heroes and legacy as Asia’s first democratic republic. She highlighted the Philippines' robust economic growth and steadfast commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
Ambassador Tang also highlighted that this year’s celebration holds special significance as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Philippine Embassy in Kenya. She cited the deepening bilateral relations, anchored on shared democratic values and commitment to peace, sustainability, multilateralism and the development priorities of the Global South. She cited key initiatives such as women empowerment in Turkana, cultural exchanges, the upcoming visit to Kenya of actors Coco Martin and Julia Montes, and the forthcoming 2nd Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation. She also reaffirmed the Philippines’ strong commitment to multilateral diplomacy.
Foreign Service Academy Director General Ambassador Patrick S. Wamoto, Guest of Honor representing the Kenyan government, expressed Kenya’s appreciation for the growing relationship with the Philippines. He highlighted opportunities for further collaboration, particularly in education, trade, agriculture, and people-to-people exchanges.
A moving performance by the Daystar University Choir of both the Philippine and Kenyan national anthems opened the evening, setting the tone for a celebration steeped in unity and mutual respect.
Supported by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the DFA-Office of Cultural Diplomacy, the Lakbai Guitar Duo captivated attendees with a blend of classical and contemporary Filipino music, showcasing the Philippines’ rich musical heritage.
Adding a personal touch, Embassy member Rossette Estrella delivered heartfelt renditions of the beloved Filipino song Paraiso and the lively classic Sumayaw, Sumunod, infusing the event with messages of joy, unity, and hope.
Guests were treated to an array of traditional Filipino dishes, including chicken adobo, pansit, lumpiang shanghai, ukoy, and turon, offering a true taste of the Philippines’ culinary heritage. Exciting raffle prizes, including a roundtrip ticket to Manila courtesy of Emirates, luxury staycations, and dining vouchers, added to the festive spirit.
The celebration highlighted the Philippines' enduring commitment to international friendship, cultural exchange, and diplomacy, especially with its partners across the African continent. END.
Ambassador Tang delivers her keynote address, highlighting the Philippines’ legacy of freedom and growing ties with Kenya.
Guest of Honor Ambassador Patrick S. Wamoto expresses appreciation for the deepening friendship between Kenya and the Philippines.
Ambassador Tang with Director-General Zainab Hawa Bangura of the UN Office at Nairobi (UNON), one of the four major UN headquarters worldwide.
The Philippine Embassy team poses for a group photo.
The Daystar University Choir opens the celebration with stirring renditions of the Philippine and Kenyan national anthems.
The Lakbai Guitar Duo captivates the audience with a vibrant showcase of Filipino musical heritage.
Members of the Filipino community and African friends in joyful dance, accompanied by the Lakbai Guitar Duo and Embassy member Rossette Estrella.
The Ambassador of Poland, H.E. Mr. Miroslaw Gojdź, winning a luxury staycation package.
Vice-Chancellor Vincent Ogutu of Strathmore University celebrates winning a roundtrip ticket to Manila, courtesy of Emirates.
