Europe Day celebrated in Manila

European Union Ambassador Massimo Santoro led the Europe Day celebrations held on May 8 which marked the 75th anniversary of the “Schuman Declaration,” the document that set in motion the European integration process.

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This declaration led to the establishment of the European Communities, now the European Union — a union of 27 European countries founded on the values of respect for human rights and dignity, freedom, democracy, equality and the rule of law.

Ambassador Santoro was joined by Foreign Affairs Acting Secretary Theresa Lazaro and the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Apostolic Nuncio Charles Brown, in the ceremonial toast. Ambassador Santoro, who spoke in Filipino and in English, said, “Kahit na nahaharap sa pinakamatinding pagsubok, naninindigan kami para sa pagkakaisa sa pagkakaiba-iba — nakikipagtulungan kami sa aming mga katuwang upang isulong ang malayang talakayan, nagkakaisang katatagan at pag-unlad at pandaigdigang pagpapahalaga.” (Even when faced with the greatest challenges, we stand for unity in diversity — working with our partners to promote open dialogue, shared stability and prosperity, as well as universal values.)

Ambassador Santoro also reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment and engagement in supporting long-term peace and development in the Philippines. “Mindanao is a priority region for our assistance and will continue doing so,” he said.