PRESS RELEASE NO. 67-2023
Consul General Emil Fernandez greets guests during the reception for US government and Consular Corps officials.
14 June 2023, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA – Continuing the month-long Philippine National Day activities this June, Consul General Emil Fernandez hosted a reception last June 13 at Stage Restaurant for state and city government officials, officers of US INDOPACOM and members of the Consular Corps, among other guests, to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence.
Consul General Emil Fernandez and Director Jade Butay share a toast during the reception.
In his remarks, Consul General Emil Fernandez underscored the robust and deep alliance between the Philippines and the United States, which has seen a spate of meetings among high-level officials of late. He added that the heightened intensity in the two countries’ bilateral engagements is a testament to their growing partnership.
Speaking on behalf of Hawaii Governor Josh Green, Director Jade Butay of the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations emphasized the contributions made by Filipino Americans in society, including the enrichment of various facets of the state’s culture.
Among dignitaries present were former Governor Benjamin Cayetano and Mrs. Vicky Cayetano, State Senator Joy San Buenaventura, former State Senator Bennette Misalucha, State Representatives Rose Martinez and Trish La Chica, Dr. Amy Agbayani of the Presidential Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, Consul General Lee Seo Young of the Republic of Korea, Consuls of Australia, Japan, Brazil, Finland, France, Germany, Sweden and the United Kingdom, and representatives of the academe and leading think tanks, among others. (END)
