In line with the Philippine Embassy’s continuing efforts to promote closer ties with Pacific Island countries, Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez, accompanied by Consul Arlene Gonzales-Macaisa and Honorary Consul to Fiji, Dr. Virgilio de Asa, attended the National Day celebrations of the Republic of Fiji on 10 October 2013 in Suva, Fiji.

Fiji held its official National Day celebration to mark the 43rd Anniversary of Fiji’s Independence at the Albert Park in Suva, Fiji with the parade of colors of the Republic of Fiji’s Military Forces. President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, who presided over the celebration reviewed the parade of Fiji’s military forces. After the military parade, Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama hosted a reception for the diplomatic corps, government officials and other guests.

Ambassador Benavidez conveyed the greetings of the Philippine Government on the 43rd National Day Anniversary of Fiji to Prime Minister Bainimarama during the reception. Ambassador Benavidez also thanked Prime Minister Bainimarama for Fiji’s acknowledgement of the contributions of the Filipino community to the country’s development and for the continued cooperation and support extended by the Government of Fiji for their welfare and well-being. Prime Minister Bainimarama thanked Ambassador Benavidez for her presence and greetings for Fiji’s National Day celebrations and stated that he, too, looks forward to closer and stronger relations between Fiji and the Philippines.

An official reception to celebrate Fiji’s National Day was held at the Fiji Government House on the evening of 10 October 2013. The event, hosted by President Nailatikau and First Lady Adi Koila Nailatikau, was well attended by the Diplomatic Corps and the various representatives of international agencies in Fiji who enjoyed the warm Fijian hospitality and the delicious food especially prepared for the occasion.