By Ricky Laxa
Staff Writer
On the occasion of the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence the Embassy of the Philippines in Kuwait warmly welcomed distinguished guests that included diplomats, businessmen, professionals and media personnel to a celebration held at the Arraya Ballroom in Courtyard Mariott
The gathering was graced by His Excellency Ambassador Samih Essa Johar Hayat, Assistant Foreign Minister for Asian Affairs, alongside esteemed members of the Filipino community in Kuwait
The evening was marked by a series of memorable moments, including an official cake-cutting ceremony, lively cultural performances, and a keynote speech delivered by the Philippine Ambassador, H.E. José Cabrera III.
In his remarks, Ambassador Cabrera emphasized the strong and growing relationship between the Philippines and Kuwait, focusing on economic ties, investment opportunities, development goals, and the positive environment supporting the more than 220,000 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Kuwait.
Despite global economic uncertainties in recent years, the ambassador said the resilience of the Philippines, with an anticipated economic growth rate of 5.6% in 2024, ranks among Asia’s fastest-growing emerging markets; projecting the growth to rise to 6.3% in 2025.
Ambassador Cabrera highlighted the Philippines as an increasingly attractive destination for investors interested in innovation, services, and sustainable manufacturing.
Key sectors, he said, includes agriculture, logistics, health, education, and cutting-edge fields such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, artificial intelligence, robotics, and space technology.
The Philippines envoy disclosed that the Philippines now ranks at 92 out of 167 countries in progress toward the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the nation’s ongoing commitment to reducing poverty and hunger while enhancing healthcare and education.
Currently, over 220,000 Filipinos call Kuwait their second home, making significant contributions to the economic and social development of both countries through their work in private industries and domestic roles.
The Philippines envoy expressed hope that the first round of bilateral consultations will be hosted this year in Manila. These talks will focus on key cooperation areas including maritime safety, combating human trafficking, sports, and international security.
Ambassador Cabrera expressed sincere gratitude to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah for their continuous support.
He also congratulated His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines, praising his leadership, wisdom, and compassion on this special occasion.
Speaking to the press on the sidelines of the celebrations, Ambassador Hayat praised the historic Kuwait-Philippines relations, emphasizing the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors.
He commended the fruitful meeting between His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid and the Philippine President, held during the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and ASEAN summits in Malaysia, as well as during the GCC-China summit.
He explained that the discussions covered ways to enhance cooperation and further develop the historic ties between Kuwait and the Philippines. “We look forward to fruitful outcomes in the coming phase, including reciprocal visits by senior officials and ongoing coordination on issues of mutual interest,” he added.
