By Marinel E. Peroy
The Hungary-Philippines Friendship Week 2025 wasn’t just a celebration—it was a showcase of groundbreaking initiatives, cultural milestones, and strengthened diplomatic ties. Here are seven key highlights of the celebration:
1. Landmark agreement on ethical labor recruitment
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Association for Central European Employment of Overseas Filipino Workers (ACE) and the Philippine Association of Service Exporters (PASEI) was signed. The agreement aims to streamline ethical recruitment practices and improve labor conditions for Filipino workers in Hungary.
2. Commemoration of Hungary’s historic revolution
The celebration also honored the 177th anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution and War of Independence (1848-49), reinforcing historical ties between the two nations.
A cocktail reception was hosted to honor the life and works of Sándor Petőfi, Hungary’s revolutionary poet, through a digital exhibition.
“Together with the Ateneo de Naga University Press, the Embassy of Hungary in Manila has published a poem anthology entitled, Hindi Pasisiil Ang Pagsibol—translated into six dialects from the Philippines,” said Ambassador Titanilla Tóth.
Ambassador Tóth even shared the historical connections of Hungary and the Philippines in two instances: the parallelism on the works of Petőfi and the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal; and March 15 being both the national independence day of Hungary and the death of Dr. Rizal’s wife, Josephine Bracken.
She read Petőfi’s famous poem, Freedom, love!: “Freedom and love my creed! These are the two I need. For love, I’ll freely sacrifice. My earthly spell, For freedom, I will sacrifice. My love as well.”
3. Hybrid celebration for over 12,000 OFWs in Hungary
Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and Ambassador Tóth inaugurated Hungary Day at the DMW Head Office in Mandaluyong City.
The opening featured an Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Bazaar, showcasing enterprises from both nations, including ACAY Missions Philippines, Teqball Philippines, and OFW-led ventures.
The festivities included a hybrid session that enabled more than 12,000 Filipino guest workers in Hungary to participate virtually. This innovative approach allowed remote attendees to join key discussions and cultural presentations.
4. Tribute to Honorary Consul General Alfonso Yuchengco III
A special tribute was paid to Honorary Consul General of Hungary Alfonso Yuchengco III, who received a Letter of Appreciation from the Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó for his 25 years of dedicated service in strengthening Hungary-Philippines ties.
“It has been a privilege to represent Hungary and to be able to witness firsthand the strengthening of bonds between the two countries. This journey has been incredibly rewarding, filled with meaningful relationships and experiences,” said Honorary Consul General of Hungary Alfonso Yuchengco III.
Upon receiving the recognition, Yuchengco III extended his gratitude and appreciation to his colleagues and friends who have supported him during his stint in promoting cultural exchange, educational collaborations, and humanitarian assistance. He noted the increase of bilateral trade between Hungary and the Philippines to USD 200 million (in 2023), double that when he was first appointed as honorary consul.
“I’m committed to fostering the values of diplomacy, friendship, and cooperation for the next 25 years or more,” he said.
5. Opening of the Migrant Workers Office in Budapest
This Friendship Week also marked the first year after the opening of the Migrant Workers Office in Budapest, further strengthening support for OFWs in Hungary and enhancing bilateral cooperation in labor and migration policies.
6. Job fair connecting Filipino workers to Hungarian employers
A dedicated job fair featured 16 Hungarian company representatives promoting employment opportunities for Filipino workers across various sectors, expanding career prospects for OFWs.
A representative from recruitment agencies explained that most Filipino OFWs who are working in Hungary are in the manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture sectors. With the increasing job opportunities for Filipinos in Hungary, it is also timely to have aftercare social support through the help of ARUGA, a company that “nurtures” the well-being of foreign workers through employment assistance, cultural integration, and health and wellness programs.
Like Filipinos, Hungarians are also hospitable. Warm and friendly in casual conversations or in work settings.
7. Celebrating a Hungarian medical pioneer
The event concluded with the screening of Semmelweis (2023), a Hungarian film directed by Lajos Koltai, which honors the life of Ignác Semmelweis. Known as the “savior of mothers,” Semmelweis revolutionized antiseptic procedures, saving countless lives.
Of friendship and progress
Hungary-Philippines Friendship Week 2025 proved to be more than just a cultural exchange—it was a testament to the lasting bond between the two nations. From labor advancements to historical tributes and cultural showcases, the celebration underscored the power of collaboration in shaping a brighter future for both countries.
