DRAFT

THE EMBASSY OF THE PHILIPPINES IN WELLINGTON CELEBRATES

50 YEARS OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS WITH NEW ZEALAND
In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the Philippines and
New Zealand, Philippine Ambassador Jesus S. Domingo hosted a reception on 13 July
2016 at the Wellington Museum. Over 200 guests from the diplomatic corps, host
government, business community, academic sector and Filipino Community graced the
event.
In his remarks, Ambassador Domingo commended the five decades of dynamic friendship
between the Philippines and New Zealand. He remarked that the strong relationship of the
two countries is highlighted by their shared values and thriving people-to-people ties.
Ambassador Domingo called on Kiwinoys who now number nearly 50,000 and make up
one percent of the countrys population, to deepen its involvement in the political,
economic and cultural life of New Zealand beyond the immediate Filipino Community. In
particular, Domingo urged Kiwinoys not only to register and vote for the upcoming local
and national New Zealand elections, but to also stand as candidates. He concluded with
expressing the Philippines thanks for New Zealands call on all parties to respect the
Arbitral Tribunal ruling on maritime rights in the South China Sea.
Mr. Stephen Harris, Divisional Manager, South and South East Asia Division, Ministry of
Foreign Affairs of Trade representing the Government of New Zealand stated in his
remarks the New Zealands relationship with the Philippines has come a long way in five
decades. Mr. Harris noted that New Zealand - Philippines relations have become more
substantial over the last decade as trade has grown and more Filipino migrants settle in
New Zealand. Both countries, he has achieved more strategic and meaningful
collaboration on bilateral, regional, and global issues of mutual interest and New Zealand
looks forward to furthering the relations in the decades to come.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a mural painted by Filipino artist, Roderick
Derrick Colminas Macutay. The mural, a six feet by ten feet oil on canvas entitled Ties
that come a long way, was unveiled by Ambassador Domingo and Mr. Harris to the
delight of the Receptions guests after a video message from Mr. Macutay was viewed by
all.
The mural was specially commissioned by the Embassy in Wellington for the occasion of
the 50th Anniversary of Philippines-New Zealand Diplomatic Relations. It depicts the
shared cultural ties that bind Filipinos and Kiwis as well showcases the substantial
contributions Filipinos have brought to New Zealands economy and society.
A well-received performance by the New Zealand Filifest Cultural Group of two well-known
Filipino cultural dances, Binasuan and Tinikling, provided entertainment for the 50 th
Anniversary of Philippines-New Zealand Diplomatic Relations.
Filipino and Kiwi
photographers also contributed twelve evocative images in photographs of their favorite
Filipino scenes which were exhibited at the Reception. The Reception concluded with the
awarding of Certificates of Appreciation for Filipinos and New Zealanders alike who have
contributed to the success of the Embassys various endeavours.