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 16^th 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.

Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts has reiterated The Netherlands’ support for the Philippines in facing challenges such as the West Philippine Sea dispute and climate change.

In her speech during the celebration of The Netherlands’ King’s Day, Ambassador Geraedts said, “Our constitution dictates that our government pro-actively promote international law. So we vow to continuously uphold international legal order and rule of law, especially in the West Philippine Sea, in Ukraine, and other regions of the world. Might does not make right, international law does.”

At the same time, Ambassador Geraedts expressed her country’s unwavering commitment to its partnership with the Philippines in the face of borderless challenges such as climate crisis and human trafficking.

“We have upheld in our fight against the sea by sophisticated engineering, and we are happy to share that experience with the Philippines that also strongly faces the consequences of climate change,” she said.

As over half of The Netherlands is below sea level, it has built protective dikes along its coastline and many rivers as an adaptation against consistent threats of flooding.

“Together, our countries have been partners in advancing the fight against human trafficking and in protecting children’s rights. We uphold our duties and remain a committed partner to the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center,” she added.

Ambassador Geraedts highlighted the enduring 73-year friendship between the two nations, rooted in mutual respect and shared values of democracy, freedoms, and respect for international law.

“In our foreign policy, we vow to uphold human rights, for everybody, everywhere. Together with journalists and media workers, we up #holdtheline and make sure that access to information, the freedom of speech, and facts make our democracies work,” Ambassador Geraedts;

“We stand with all the powerful women’s movements and the LGBTQIA+ activists in all their sparkling diversity, as they continue to assert their rights and challenge norms to make this world a kinder, equal place,” she said.

Speaking before officials of the Philippine government, members of the Diplomatic Corps, civil society partners, and representatives from Dutch and Filipino communities, Ambassador Geraedts emphasized the historical ties between the two nations.

“For over 500 years, we have been a shipping nation and we continue to be. Something that would not be possible without the contribution of the Filipino seafarers. Their dedication is vital in keeping not only the Dutch, but the global trade, flowing,” she said.

“The Netherlands has consistently been among the largest foreign investors in the Philippines. Some 150 Dutch companies are based here. The Dutch Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines is very active,” she added.