Palestine National Day 2025 in Manila: A historic celebration of solidarity and diplomacy

The Embassy of the State of Palestine in Manila marked a historic milestone with the celebration of Palestine National Day and the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City on Nov. 18, 2025.

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A heartfelt welcome from Mounir Y.K. Anastas, Ambassador of the State of Palestine, as he opens the event with inspiring remarks

The gathering was both a commemoration of Palestinian independence and a powerful expression of solidarity, cultural pride, and deepening diplomatic ties.

This year's celebration coincided with the first-ever visit of a Palestinian Foreign Minister to the Philippines, as Varsen Aghabekian Shahin led the delegation. Her presence underscored the growing political relationship between the two nations, marking the highest-level Palestinian official visit since bilateral relations were established 36 years ago.

Philippine officials, including Senator Robin Padilla and Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Leo M. Herrera-Lim, joined ambassadors, diplomats, and representatives from international organizations in welcoming Shahin. The event highlighted Manila's role as a partner in strengthening ties with Palestine and supporting its struggle for freedom and dignity.