Honoring Philippine Independence: The deeper meaning behind Vin d'Honneur
In celebration of the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence, members of the diplomatic corps, esteemed public officials, Filipino fashion designers, and select guests gathered at the Malacañang Palace for the Vin d'Honneur hosted by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise "Liza" Araneta-Marcos.
Held biannually since 1987, the Vin d'Honneur is an official reception hosted by the President of the Philippines to mark the New Year and Philippine Independence Day.
This year's celebration centers on the theme "Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan." which translates to "Freedom. Future. History." The theme melds history, patriotism, and culture as "a tribute to the legacy of Filipino heroes while inspiring hope for a stronger and more united future."
The President and the First Lady led the meaningful reception on June 12, warmly welcoming the members of the diplomatic corps, most of whom donned elegant iterations of Terno created by some of the country's distinguished fashion designers.
According to the First Lady, it was a "heartwarming" moment to see the diplomats wear Filipino creations at the Vin d'Honneur.
"A simple gesture, but one that spoke volumes about appreciation, solidarity, and love for our culture. Nakakataba ng puso. Maraming salamat po," she wrote on Instagram.
The beauty of Terno
Terno refers to a Filipiniana attire traditionally designed with oversized butterfly sleeves.
For Vin d'Honneur, Filipino designers brought their A-game in crafting traditional Terno with a modern twist for the members of the diplomatic corps.
Francis Libiran dressed Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Hae Kyong Yu in a striking cerulean blue Terno.
Per Libiran, the color choice is an ode to "the vast waters that unite our nations." The designer also added an intricate embroidery of native Australian flora and traditional Filipino patterns as a subtle nod to the friendship between the Philippines and Australia.
Speaking to GMA News Online, Ambassador Yu said that "she felt like a true Filipina" while wearing a Libiran creation.
"I have enjoyed wearing all kinds of Filipiniana in my three years in the Philippines, and I am always drawn to the iconic butterfly sleeves," she said.
"To me, they represent the beauty and strength of empowered women," she added.
Libiran also created a beautiful ensemble made of Dupioni silk for Romanian Ambassador Raduta Dana Matache.
"The embroidery intertwines Romanian lace-inspired motifs with Filipino baroque elements, symbolizing the blending of heritage and mutual respect," said Libiran.
Meanwhile, Lulu Tan-Gan created a silhouette using a mix of silk, abaca, and piña in the moss gray gown for Hungarian Ambassador Titanilla Tóth.
The skirt features a sculpted top layer of abaca draped and twisted over a piña apron to create movement, depth, and texture. For a pop of color, Tan-Gan added a handcrafted abaca floral brooch in bright cerise.
On the other hand, Dennis Lustico drew inspiration from the personalities of New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Catherine McIntosh and Singaporean Ambassador to the Philippines Constance See for their Terno numbers.
For Ambassador McIntosh, Lustico got inspiration from the summer breeze and the vast openness of New Zealand's vista. As for Ambassador See, the designer used different textures and patterns to pay homage to Singapore's multi-racial and rich cultural mix.
The Philippines' achievements at the forefront
More than the diplomatic formality, the Vin d'Honneur gathering has become synonymous with reflecting and acknowledging the country's progress through the years.
In his speech during the Independence Day Vin d'Honneur, Marcos reaffirmed his mission for the Philippines in "building bridges, not walls."
"Our engagements with the world are geared towards building peace and cooperation and to foster enduring partnerships," he said.
"We forge alliances that are based on mutual respect, reciprocity, and shared goals," he added.
Marcos also shared key highlights of the country's progress in terms of the economy and inflation rate.
"I am pleased to note that the Philippine economy grew 5.4% in the first quarter of 2025 and is among the fastest in the ASEAN region despite rising global volatilities," he said.
"On inflation, I am proud to announce that the inflation rate dropped to 1.3% in May of 2025, which is the lowest since November of 2019."
A space for building partnerships and connections
The Vin d'Honneur is also a space for fostering meaningful partnerships and connections.
It is a chance for diplomats and government officials to reaffirm ties, spark new conversations, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
For the Singaporean Ambassador See, Vin d'Honneur was the perfect setting where leaders, diplomats, and friends of the Philippines "come together in a spirit of celebration and dialogue.
"An event like this reminds us that the foundation of strong partnerships often lies in shared moments, personal connections, and a deep appreciation of each other's stories," See told GMA News Online.
"Diplomacy is not just built in official meetings — it grows in spaces where trust and friendship are nurtured," she added.
During the event, Marcos expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the diplomats for their continuous support of the Philippines.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the members of the diplomatic corps for continuously working and supporting the Philippine government on its many economic initiatives and endeavors, especially strengthening our bilateral ties in key areas of mutual interest, including people-to-people linkages as an important foundation for our strong cooperation," the President said.
"Over the next six months and throughout the whole of 2026, we look forward to active collaboration with you as we prepare to chair the Association of Southeast Asian Nations," he added.
A spotlight on Filipino hospitality and cultural grace
What makes Vin d'Honneur truly memorable is how it offers firsthand the essence of Filipino hospitality. The curated menus highlighting regional flavors, Filipino music, and craftsmanship all represent the Philippines as a gracious and proud host.
Australian Ambassador Yu noted that from the moment the President and the First Lady welcomed her into the event up to the spectacular cultural performances and delicious food, it was "an amazing showcase of the Philippine pride and culture, expressed through warm hospitality and friendship."
"The tone and format of the Vin d'Honneur definitely deepened my appreciation of Philippine Independence Day," Yu said.
"It also reminded everyone present that the Philippines' hard-fought independence will always be cherished and celebrated."
She also commended the President and the First Lady for devoting time to welcoming every ambassador "one by one," which "best exemplifies Filipino hospitality."
"Having so many ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps gathered like that, alongside Cabinet Secretaries, Senators, members of Congress, and other senior officials, is very special and naturally fosters the spirit of camaraderie amongst us all," she said.
Echoing Ambassador Yu's sentiments, Ambassador See said that Filipino hospitality is "known around the world."
"At the Vin d'Honneur, that spirit was on full display. The ambiance was elegant, and conversations flowed easily," See said.
Honoring Philippine Independence, strengthening the nation through community
Hosting the Vin d'Honneur to celebrate the Philippine Independence Day is part of the government's continued commitment to creating a space where nations unite not in opposition but in solidarity.
The presence of diplomats and world leaders symbolizes the collective effort in building one's nation.
For Ambassador Yu, the Vin d'Honneur is among the events that allow the diplomatic community to be one with the Philippines in celebrating its independence, "as friends as well as colleagues."
"We can take a moment to look back and reflect on the Philippines' hard-fought independence and the value of sovereignty," she said.
"But we also look forward to the future the Philippines wants to build and how allies and friends, like Australia, can work in partnership to achieve it," she added.
She also said it was her last Vin d'Honneur as an Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, so she savored every moment she had spent with the President and the First Lady.
The Vin d'Honneur is just among the gatherings in the country that remind us that the Philippines is not alone in its goals and aspirations. It spotlights the human side of diplomacy, rooted in relationships, trust, and the collective effort to build a better future.
Ambassador Yu said that hearing the President speak about the Philippines' commitment to diplomacy and development partnerships reinforced her confidence that Australians are on the right path, working alongside Filipino partners, friends, and neighbors "to create a region that is peaceful, stable, and prosperous."
Meanwhile, Ambassador See shared that this year's reception felt especially meaningful coming shortly after the productive official visit of Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to the Philippines in early June.
"It affirmed the depth of our bilateral relationship and the warm ties between our peoples," said See.
At the end of his speech, the President invited everyone to raise their glasses in a toast "to our enduring friendships and to continuing deepening of ties between our countries and our peoples."
This biannual toast tradition at the Vin d'Honneur also served as a tribute to the dedication of workers, educators, healthcare professionals, and Overseas Filipino Workers who continue to uplift the country — a moment of recognition and appreciation for their hard work and contributions to the nation's progress.
—CDC, GMA Integrated News
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
GMA Network
32 minutes ago
- GMA Network
National Museum of the Philippines loans Juan Luna's 'Una Bulaqueña' to Louvre Abu Dhabi
The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) has loaned Juan Luna's 'Una Bulaqueña' to the Louvre Abu Dhabi (LAD) in the United Arab Emirates, where it will be displayed until June 2026. According to NMP's post on Facebook, the loan is the first direct collaboration between the two museums, 'signalling a major milestone in the cultural dialogue between the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates.' The unveiling ceremony was attended by His Excellency Chairman of LAD Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak; Ambassador of the Philippines in the UAE His Excellency Alfonso A. Ver; and Deputy Director-General of the NMP Jorell M. Legaspi. Al Mubarak said LAD commits to promoting universality and global cultural exchange. 'With this display of 'Una Bulaqueña,' Abu Dhabi audiences will have the opportunity to discover a great deal about its cultural and art historical context, thereby learning more about the rich and fascinating history of the Philippines,' he said. Ver added that this strengthens the relations between the Philippines and the UAE. 'This significant cultural exchange reflects our shared commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation through art.' LAD director Manuel Rabaté said they're "deeply honored to bring this treasured masterpiece to the Arab world for the first time." He described 'Una Bulaqueña' as a representation of the heritage and identity of the Filipino people. "This exceptional loan strengthens our universal narrative by placing Southeast Asia's voice at the heart of our global dialogue." "Una Bulaqueña," also called "La Bulaqueña," is Luna's painting of a Filipino woman from Bulacan dressed in traditional attire. According to the Cultural Center of the Philippines Encyclopedia of Philippine Art, the woman in the portrait is Emiliana Yriarte Trinidad, who was less than 17 years old when she posed for the painting. She is 'a comely Filipina from an elite provincial family," depicted full figure in the formal dress of the time. 'Her contemplative gaze and upright posture speak volumes about the grace and strength of a Filipina,' NMP added on Facebook. 'The artwork also reflects Luna's mastery of merging the European art traditions of his time with the distinct dynamism of Filipino identity.' The painting survived World War II and was declared a National Cultural Treasure in 2008. It was sold to the NMP in World War II for 200 in Japanese military notes, according to the CCP. —Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
an hour ago
- GMA Network
'Not the first time': Marcos says he and his family often use MRT-3
President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. on Friday said that he and his family often ride the MRT-3 together and that his ride last June 1 was "not the first time." ''First of all, hindi 'to first time na sumakay ako ng MRT, madalas namin gamitin 'yung MRT dahil sa traffic. Mas mabilis eh. Kami... pamilya ko, mga kaibigan ko. Hindi practical matraffic, magdadalawang oras ka hanggang Cubao,'' Marcos said in the BBM Podcast. (First of all, it was not my first time to ride the MRT. We often use the MRT because of the traffic. It's faster. I, my family, and my friends ride the MRT. The traffic is not practical, it's often two hours to get to Cubao.) He also shared that he often talks to commuters, and they told him about the usual crowded situation inside the train, adding that he personally experienced the challenge of commuting using the MRT-3. ''Naramdaman ko 'yan, minsan sumakay kami ng MRT, talagang pag nakapasok ka na, basta't 'yung kamay mo nandito, hindi mo na magagalaw 'yun. Nakadikit ka na dito. Kinakausap ko mga pasahero, 'Sir, ganyan talaga 'yan araw-araw,''' the President added. (I experienced that, one time we used the MRT and once you enter and place your hands here, you can no longer move. I often talk to passengers, and they tell me the situation is like that every day.) Marcos earlier announced the Family/Pamilya Pass 1+3 program, which was made in honor of Family Day and to celebrate Filipino families. In this program, families or barkadas of four members only need to pay for one passenger to ride the MRT-3, LRT-2 and LRT-1 every Sunday starting on June 1, 2025. Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation has announced the increased discount for all students from 20% to 50% for LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT-3 starting Friday. —VAL, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
an hour ago
- GMA Network
Sara Duterte bound for Australia, to join rally for dad Rodrigo
Vice President Sara Duterte addresses the media in front of the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands on March 14, 2025. Photo by: Jay-Vee Marasigan Pangan Vice President Sara Duterte will travel to Australia for another personal trip and to join a protest action calling for the release of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte. According to an advisory Friday from the Office of the Vice President (OVP), her itinerary includes attendance in the "Free Duterte Now" rally on Sunday, June 22, in Melbourne. The elder Duterte is currently detained at the Scheveningen Prison in The Hague, Netherlands over charges of crimes against humanity for the extrajudicial killings during his administration's war on drugs. Last week, the Vice President traveled to Kuala Lumpur for a personal trip with her family. While in Malaysia, she attended a Philippine Independence Day celebration and engaged in a program consultation with overseas Filipino workers. The Vice President is facing an impeachment case for betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the Constitution, graft and corruption, and other high crimes. She was impeached by the House of Representatives on February 5, with over 200 lawmakers endorsing the complaint against her. After the Senate voted to return her case to the House of Representatives, her impeachment trial is currently expected to begin in the 20th Congress, which will open in July. The Office of the Ombudsman on Thursday directed Sara Duterte and nine others from the OVP and the Department of Education (DepEd) to respond to the charges filed by the House of Representatives in connection with the alleged misuse of confidential funds. The order came after the House filed a complaint against Duterte and several others for plunder, technical malversation, falsification, use of falsified documents, perjury, bribery, corruption of public officers, betrayal of public trust, and culpable violation of the Constitution, a source said. The complaint stemmed from the recommendation of the House Committee on Good Governance and Public Accountability to file charges against Duterte for the alleged misuse of P500 million in confidential funds of the OVP and P112.5 million in confidential funds of DepEd from 2022 to 2024. The Vice President has denied the allegations against her. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
