The friendship between Hungary and the Philippines reached new heights—literally and figuratively—as Hungary’s newest astronaut, Tibor Farkas, became only the second Hungarian to travel into space. “His journey is a powerful symbol of friendship between Hungary and the Philippines too. The sky is the limit,” Hungarian Ambassador to the Philippines Titanilla Tóth declared, capturing the spirit of boundless cooperation between the two nations.
The remark came during a reception in Manila commemorating Hungary’s National Day and the 1956 Revolution, where the gathering evolved beyond a remembrance of history into a celebration of shared democratic ideals and forward-looking partnership.
“Tonight is a historic moment, a historic night, a historic event we share together,” Ambassador Tóth began, paying tribute to the 1956 heroes who “had the courage to dream of a Hungary built upon independence, democracy, and freedom.” She connected their legacy to today’s global landscape—one that calls for solidarity, innovation, and resilience between nations.
The Ambassador highlighted the expanding cooperation between Hungary and the Philippines in addressing global challenges, including climate change, sustainable agriculture, smart city development, and trade innovation. “We see it in our joint work through the memorandum of understanding signed in New York,” she said, underscoring how both nations are finding new synergies in innovation and sustainability.
Adding a cultural dimension to the evening, guests witnessed the unveiling of the second edition of the Hungarian poetry anthology “Hindi Pasisiil ang Pagsibol,” now translated into Visayan and Ilocano. Ambassador Tóth remarked, “This continuation reminds us that Hungarian literature speaks universally—of beauty, freedom, love, and the human spirit,” linking art and diplomacy as expressions of shared humanity.
The evening concluded with a toast to enduring friendship and mutual growth. “May our partnership continue to grow stronger,” Ambassador Tóth said, “guided by mutual respect, shared values, and the unwavering belief that freedom, peace, and friendship are worth acting for—and celebrating together.”