I wish to express my warmest greetings to the 220,000-strong Filipino community in Kuwait on the 123rd anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence. It has been 123 years since General Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence from Spain, paving the way for the establishment of Asia's first republic.
While we take stock of the freedoms that we now cherish, this day also reminds us of our continuing struggle to be free from the Coronavirus disease. It is through bayanihan, the collective will and action of the Filipino people, that today's celebration carries the theme: "Kalayaan 2021: Spirit of Freedom in Unity and National Healing."
I take this opportunity to express my sincere and profound appreciation to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and the Government of the State of Kuwait for their continuous hospitality extended to almost a quarter of a million overseas Filipinos who have made Kuwait their second home, especially during the pandemic.
In April 2020, the Philippines became the first country that benefited from the Kuwaiti government's amnesty program for undocumented residents, bringing home more than 2,200 Filipinos. In December 2020, when the Kuwaiti government rolled out its COVID-19 vaccination program, among the first who received their shots are Filipino frontliners.
Since the opening of diplomatic ties in 1979, the relations between the Philippines and Kuwait have been cordial and friendly as the two countries are continuously endeavoring together in taking significant steps to further boost and strengthen their diplomatic relations.
The Philippines-Kuwait Agreement on the Employment of Domestic Workers was signed in Kuwait in May 2018 to protect the rights and promote the welfare of Filipino domestic workers. Three years on, we hope to live up to the noble intentions of this agreement, including the full implementation of the new Standard Contract for Domestic Workers.
The friendly relations between the Philippines and Kuwait will always remain strong based on trust, confidence and mutual cooperation. I express my faith that the Philippines and Kuwait, linked by historical and people-to-people ties, could overcome any issue and would continue to work together to achieve our mutual goals and interests. May the Almighty continue to bless the Philippines and Kuwait. Mabuhay!
Mohd Noordin Pendosina N Lomondot