By Marinel E. Peroy
The more than seven decades of diplomatic relations between the Netherlands and the Philippines, and just two years away to mark the diamond jubillee, this relationship continue to flourish and what makes it unique and deepens this is the commitment to upholding human rights, democracy, and media freedom.
Speaking to the guests during the celebration for His Majesty King Willem-Alexander’s birthday, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Netherlands to the Philippines Her Excellency Marielle Geraedts said, “Our two nations may be separated by many miles of land and sea, but our partnership is based on a foundation of mutual respect and shared values on democracy, freedoms, and respect for international law.”
Aside from highlighting the love of Dutch people for the country, the envoy emphasized the significance of je maintiendrai — a French motto which in English means “I will maintain” or “I will uphold”. “I quite like the translation in Filipino—mananatili akong matatag.” It speaks of determination, resilience, and commitment, something that we take to heart and put to action,” explained Geraedts.
The envoy shared that je maintiendrai’s historical significance parallels their history. The founding father of their Nation, Willem van Nassau, inherited the Duchy of Orange in France from his cousin, including the motto. The so-called Willem of Orange-Nassau was a prominent freedom fighter against the Spanish occupation to the Netherlands in the 16th century, correlating him to the Philippines’ very own Jose Rizal or Andres Bonifacio.
Orange: Dynamic & warm partnership
The Dutch nation continues to ‘uphold’ the international legal order and rule of law, human rights, and goals to create sustainable solutions, emphasizing corporate social responsibility, transparency, and ethical governance. With the embassy’s collaborations with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce Philippines, the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center, LGBTQIA+ organizations, and others, the Netherlands is indeed a “world-class business destination and partner, promoting inclusivity in diversity and mutual respect.
Furthermore, Amb. Geraedts underscored why media freedom and truth-telling are vital to diplomacy during the THEPHILBIZNEWS Embassy Night held on April , at Hotel Okura Manila.
She reiterated that this advocacy of The Netherland remains steadfast from recognizing human rights defenders by supporting members of the press who are hindered from delivering the truth.
The birthday of King Willem-Alexander is a celebration of shared values of camaraderie, advocacies, and friendship. The Ambassador’s Residence was filled with vibrant colors of tulips, symbolizing Netherlands’ battle for Justice and Equality.
Indeed, Dutch Embassy in the Philippines remains at the forefront of fighting for the rule of law, freedom of expression, media fredom and truth-telling. And apart from this, the Netherlands remains among the largest foreign investors in the Philippines with around 150 Dutch companies doing business in the Philippines and that the Dutch Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines Inc. – DCCP is very active,” Ambassador Geraedts added.