In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the Philippines and New Zealand, Philippine Ambassador Jesus S. Domingo hosted a reception on 13 July 2016 at the Wellington Museum. Over 200 guests from the diplomatic corps, host government, business community, academic sector and Filipino Community graced the event.

In his remarks, Ambassador Domingo commended the five decades of dynamic friendship between the Philippines and New Zealand. He remarked that the strong relationship of the two countries is highlighted by their shared values and thriving people-to-people ties. Ambassador Domingo called on “Kiwinoys” who now number nearly 50,000 and make up one percent of the country’s population, to deepen its involvement in the political, economic and cultural life of New Zealand beyond the immediate Filipino Community. In particular, Domingo urged Kiwinoys not only to register and vote for the upcoming local and national New Zealand elections, but to also stand as candidates. He concluded with expressing the Philippines’ thanks for New Zealand’s call “on all parties to respect the Arbitral Tribunal ruling on maritime rights in the South China Sea.”

Mr. Stephen Harris, Divisional Manager, South and South East Asia Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Trade representing the Government of New Zealand stated in his remarks the New Zealand’s relationship with the Philippines has come a long way in five decades. Mr. Harris noted that New Zealand - Philippines relations have become more substantial over the last decade as trade has grown and more Filipino migrants settle in New Zealand. Both countries, he has achieved more strategic and meaningful collaboration on bilateral, regional, and global issues of mutual interest and New Zealand looks forward to furthering the relations in the decades to come. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a mural painted by Filipino artist, Roderick “Derrick” Colminas Macutay. The mural, a six feet by ten feet oil on canvas entitled “Ties that come a long way”, was unveiled by Ambassador Domingo and Mr. Harris to the delight of the Reception’s guests after a video message from Mr. Macutay was viewed by all.

The mural was specially commissioned by the Embassy in Wellington for the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Philippines-New Zealand Diplomatic Relations. It depicts the shared cultural ties that bind Filipinos and Kiwis as well showcases the substantial contributions Filipinos have brought to New Zealand’s economy and society.

A well-received performance by the New Zealand Filifest Cultural Group of two well-known Filipino cultural dances, Binasuan and Tinikling, provided entertainment for the 50th Anniversary of Philippines-New Zealand Diplomatic Relations. Filipino and Kiwi photographers also contributed twelve evocative images in photographs of their favorite Filipino scenes which were exhibited at the Reception. The Reception concluded with the awarding of Certificates of Appreciation for Filipinos and New Zealanders alike who have contributed to the success of the Embassy’s various endeavours.