 
MESSAGE OF CONSUL GENERAL VICTORIA S. BATACLAN ON THE OCCASION OF THE 105TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PROCLAMATION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE.
On June 12, the entire Filipino nation, together with the multitude of overseas Filipinos spread across the globe, will celebrate the 105th anniverseray of the proclamation of Philippine independence. Coinciding with the Philippines’ national day is the observance of Philippine Migrant Workers Week which gives the Filipino community in Hong Kong further cause to come together in answering dual clarion calls: “Sa Matatag na Republika: Bayan Ko, Sagot Ko” and “Dakilang OFW: Dangal ng Pilipinas”. The first theme poses the question of what every Filipino could do to contribute toward a strong Philippine Republic while the second provides a ready response to the challenge at hand. To my mind, each and every Filipino in Hong Kong, whether working as a household helper, musician, engineer, architect, shop clerk, flight attendant, medical practitioner, journalist, or investment banker, has brought great honor and pride to the motherland by the sheer quality of service that has become the hallmark of a Filipino in this world-class city. It is a widely acknowledged fact that, collectively, Filipino labor has contributed in no small measure to Hong Kong’s present progress. Notwithstanding the venue of your employment, you comprise the very precious human resource essential to a strong Philippine Republic. I urge you to keep up the good work, strive for excellence, and show to the world, the Filipino’s indomitable resilience and diligence. Above all, love the motherland for which heroes before you have laid down their lives. Mabuhay ang manggagawang Pilipino! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! VICTORIA S.
BATACLAN 12 June 2003
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