The fiesta atmosphere at the ballroom of the New World Makati Hotel was unmistakable with the colorful décor that greeted the guests who joined in the celebration of Mexico’s National Day or Dia de la Independencia hosted by Mexican Ambassador Julio Camarena Villaseñor. Adding to the festive air were a mariachi band, dancers and of course, Mexico’s most popular drink — tequila! Guests from the diplomatic corps, business and media certainly enjoyed sampling the different brands of the potent drink.
The Philippines and Mexico established formal diplomatic relations over 60 years ago, specifically on April 14, 1953, but both countries have a shared history and heritage dating back to the 16th century, with the Acapulco-Manila galleon trade spanning the whole of the Pacific Ocean and lasting for 250 years from 1565 to 1815. Both Mexico and the Philippines were colonized by Spain for three centuries, so it’s no wonder that the two countries have similarities in terms of culture and traditions.
Currently, there are some 200,000 Filipinos residing in Mexico. In the Philippines, among the notable Mexican companies are Cemex, an important player in the cement industry, and FEMSA S.A.B. de C.V. of Mexico that bought Coca-Cola Bottlers Phils. in 2012.
Not many know that a Roman Catholic priest in Dolores, Guanajuato by the name of Fr. Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla was instrumental in Mexico’s quest for independence. While Mexico actually obtained independence from Spain on Sept. 27, 1821, it was Fr. Hidalgo’s passionate speech on Sept. 16, 1810, known as “the cry” or “El Grito de Dolores” encouraging the people to unite and fight against Spain, that served as a catalyst for the Mexican War of Independence.
Viva Mexico!