By Alithea De Jesus
As Czech Republic and Philippines celebrate the 50th diplomatic relations, it is noteworthy to mention that back in July 1886, friendship blossomed between Ferdinand Johann Franz Blumentritt who was born in Prague, and Dr. Jose Rizal our national hero.
No one really knows whether the 135 years of friendship between Blumentritt and Rizal paved the way for the strong relationship between Czech Republic and the Philippines.
But truly, the celebration of both the Czech National Day and the 50-year milestone of Czech-Philippine diplomatic relations, calls for a grand toast.
To mark the momentous occasion, the Czech Embassy of the Czech Republic in Manila hosted a grand reception on October 16, 2023, at Fairmont Makati. The double celebration of Czech Republic was attended by over 300 distinguished guests, including government officials, partners of the Embassy from the business and development sectors, and members of the diplomatic community.
The evening’s program paid homage to the enduring friendship between the Czech Republic and the Philippines and celebrated the shared values and goals that have characterized the flourishing relationship between the two countries over the past half-century.
A toast is raised to celebrate five decades of diplomatic relations between the Czech Republic and the Philippines.
Much to the delight of the guests, Mr. Dalibor Mička, Chargé d’affaires, a.i., began his remarks in Filipino as he welcomed the guests to the grand reception. Mr. Mička also highlighted the accomplishments of the diplomatic relations between the Czech Republic and the Philippines, further emphasizing the special bond between the two nations.
Joining him in the ceremonial toast were Rev. Msgr. Alessio Deriu, Chargé d’affaires, a.i. of the Apostolic Nunciature, and DFA Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and International Economic Relations Charles C. Jose. Speaking as the guest of honor, Usec. Jose extended his heartfelt congratulations to the people of the Czech Republic on the occasion of their 105th founding anniversary. Usec. Jose also expressed his optimism that in the next 50 years, both the Czech Republic and the Philippines “will continue to work together towards mutual development.”
Among the senior officials in attendance were Senator Mark Villar, Secretary Enrique Manalo of the Department of Foreign Affairs, and Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation.
Guests were immersed in the rich taste of the Czech beer, one of the prides of the Czech. They were also treated to the finest Czech beer, a true delight as the Czech Republic is renowned for its rich brewing heritage. This beverage enhanced the evening with the authentic flavors of Czech culture.
In the midst of indulging in the authentic flavors of Czech culture, the event took an exciting turn with the highly anticipated raffle draw. Adding to the evening’s excitement, the grand prize was revealed to be a coveted roundtrip ticket to the enchanting city Prague, generously provided by the Embassy’s esteemed airline partner, Turkish Airlines (official airline partner).
A testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration and partnership, the event was made possible through the support of the Embassy’s partners: Home Credit, VFS Global, BDO, Integrated Micro-electronics, Inc. (IMI), and Turkish Airlines.
This year’s reception carries a dual significance, commemorating not only the Czech National Day but also the 50th year anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Czech Republic and the Philippines.
Annually observed on the 28th of October, the Czech National Day commemorates a pivotal moment in the country’s history, symbolizing the dawn of a new era marked by self-determination and freedom. Meanwhile, the five decades of diplomatic relations between the Czech Republic and the Philippines underscore the enduring friendship and collaboration that was formally established on October 5, 1973.
In celebrating this historic dual occasion, the shared past was not only honored by the guests. More importantly, a future filled with boundless opportunities, united in friendship and shared aspirations, was collectively embraced.