Not many Filipinos know they can travel to Israel visa-free.
This is a long-standing foreign policy of the Israel government in recognition of the Philippines’ vote of affirmation on November 28, 1947 to the United Nations Resolution 181, which brought about the establishment of the Jewish State on May 14, 1948.
Among the 33 countries which voted for the resolution, the Philippines was the only Asian country that decided to take this historic move.
But even prior to this historic event, the President Manuel Quezon offered Israelis 10,000 visas for them to take refuge in the Philippines at the height of the holocaust in the 1930s.
About 1,300 Jews from different European states took advantage of this and were able to enter the Philippines at that time.
Full diplomatic relations ensued between Israel and the Philippines in 1957 and embassies were established in 1962 in Tel-Aviv and Manila.
Such momentous events brought forth a kind of unique friendship that transcended to cooperation on trade, culture, tourism, agriculture, science, innovation and technology, among others.
This is why Israel’s 75th Independence Day celebration marked a strong display of support from Philippine government officials and diplomats from almost all countries represented in the country.
Even the European Ambassador, His Excellency Luc Veron, graced the occasion at the Manila Hotel.
In his speech, Israel Ambassador Ilan Fluss noted he is “proud to represent his country, which has, in 75 years, become a global leader and a source of knowledge, research and development, and innovation and technology.”
The Ambassador expressed eagerness to partner with the Philippines in building more bridges in various areas, and in addressing challenges in the years to come, especially in trying times.
Israel’s contribution to the country’s multi-faceted sectors was given due recognition by the Philippine Senate, with Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri leading the handing of Resolution No. 59 to Ambassador Fluss. The resolution recognizes and commemorates the upcoming 75th founding anniversary of Israel.
Introduced by Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, the resolution cited the long-standing diplomatic relations of the Philippines and Israel.
“The Philippines joins the State of Israel in the celebration of its 75th founding anniversary in commemoration of both nations’ steadfast and unwavering commitment to its harmonious and peaceful diplomatic relations,” the resolution noted.
[All Photos Credit: Israel Embassy in the Philippines via Facebook (@Israel in the Philippines)]
