The Philippines Turns 107 With A Dazzling Night
By Surya PHA

Bandar Seri Begawan - Relations between Brunei Darussalam and the Philippines have seen much progress and cooperation in various fields has intensified.

The economic linkages continue to strengthen and the regular exchange of visits have certainly forged closer ties between the two countries - these have brought together the leadars and officials, who in the pursuit of closer friendship and greater cooperation have created a habit of consultation and collaboration, which benefit the peoples immensely.

This was stated by HRH Princess Hajah Masna at the 107th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence Diplomatic reception held Tuesday evening at the International Convention Centre in Berakas.

Hosted by Ambassador Mrs Virginia H.Benavidez and Mr Pio J. Benavidez, the 107th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence reception was graced by the guest of honour, HRH Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Also gracing the reception was Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz. The reception was also attended by ministers, deputy ministers, foreign diplomats, ambassadors to Brunei, permanent secretaries, deputy permanent secretaries, senior government officials as well as other distinguished guests.

Speaking at the reception, HRH Princess Hajah Masna touched on the cooperation in the area of defence. HRH said Brunei defence personnel are already working together as part of the international monitoring team in the southern Philippines and she believed that this will provide a valuable service in promoting the cause of peace in the region.

HRH also spoke on the tourist and business activities in the country, citing great potential to cooperate in the area of transportation for strong air and shipping linkages.

In her speech, HRH also expressed her appreciation to more than 15,000 Filipinos for their continued and valuable contribution to the development of the country, as professionals and workers in the Sultanate.

HRH Princess Hajah Masna applauded the regional and international role the Philippines is playing, especially in Asean, APEC and currently, in the United Nations Security Council.

Also delivering remarks at the reception was the Philippine Ambassador to Brunei Mrs Benavidez, where she lauded the pursuit of peace and development as shared goals and a common cause, and significant milestones in Philippine-Brunei cooperation particularly in the military and defence sectors, which are continued to be achieved.

She also highlighted the 10-strong Brunei contingent sent in October 2004 to observe the ceasefire agreement between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in the momentum towards the Mindanao peace process.

She also spoke on the on-going scholarship programme being implemented by His Majesty's Government for Filipino Muslims' Madrasah School Teachers and Administrators.

The reception saw a cake-cutting ceremony followed by a souvenir presentation to HRH Princess Hajah Masna.

The evening was spiced up with a cultural performance showcasing Philippine culture with dances and music. A special performance of the world-renowned Bayanihan captivated the audience at the ICC. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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