By Veronica Uy
In a heartfelt address during Embassy Night, Peter Kell, Ambassador of New Zealand to the Philippines, bid farewell to the Philippines after four years of service. The event, held to celebrate the country’s diplomatic ties with other countries, was organized by The Philippine Business and News (THEPHILBIZNEWS) and Hotel Okura Manila.
Addressing members of the diplomatic corps, representatives from international organizations, academe, and the media in a mix of Maori, English, and Filipino, Ambassador Kell expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome he received during his tenure in the Philippines. He acknowledged the beauty of the country, its national language, and the goodwill of its people.
“Sa nakalipas na apat na taon ko dito sa Pilipinas, naramdaman ko ang mainit na pagtanggap sa akin. Nakita ko ang kagandahan ng Pilipinas, kagandahan ng wikang pambansa, at ang kabutihang loob ng mga Pilipino,” he said.
“Malungkot man akong iiwan ko na ang Perlas ng Silanganan ngunit may kumpiyansa akong aalis dito na may mas matibay na ugnayan ang Pilipinas at New Zealand (While I am sad to leave the Pearl of the East, I am confident that I leave behind a stronger relationship between the Philippines and New Zealand),” he added.
He emphasized the importance of celebrating shared cultures and traditions while reflecting on the challenges overcome together and the aspirations for future improvements.
“Let us embrace this opportunity to recognize and deepen existing friendships and forge new ones,” Ambassador Kell urged the Embassy Night attendees.
He concluded his speech by expressing his sincere gratitude for the support he received during his time in the Philippines and bid farewell with the hope of returning soon.
“Hanggang sa muli. Taos puso akong nagpapasalamat sa inyong suporta (See you again. I sincerely thank you for your support),” Ambassador Kell said.
Embassy Night served not only as a farewell to Ambassador Kell but also as a testament to the enduring friendship between the Philippines and many other countries, including New Zealand.
