3 March 2009 - Philippine Ambassador to Seoul Luis T. Cruz formally launched the 60th Anniversary of Philippines-Korea relations today with a media luncheon at the Westin Chosun Hotel to announce the Embassy’s activities for the yearlong celebration.

"Anniversaries are an occasion for looking at past accomplishments, taking stock of our present cooperation, and charting the way forward for deeper and wider collaboration," said Amb. Cruz.

"Sixty years is an important milestone. As the fifth country to extend diplomatic recognition to South Korea and the third country to send ground combat troops to South Korea during the Korean War, the Philippines is proud to have South Korea as one of its most enduring and closest partners," he added.

Amb. Cruz opened the ceremony with the announcement by Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo designating March 3, 2009 as "Philippines-Korea Friendship Day" and the year 2009 as "Philippines-Korea Friendship Year."

The designations aim to raise awareness about the common history, culture and future shared by the two countries.

Amb. Cruz launched the 60th Anniversary with representatives from the Korean Government, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Korea Local Authorities Foundation for International Relations, and the Korea Post.

The Korea Post launched the Philippines-Korea Commemorative Stamps during the same event, featuring Korea's "Sonori in Hangawi" and the Philippine "Panagbenga Flower Festival."

The Panagbenga Flower Festival is held for a month every February in Baguio, the country’s summer capital. Following a spectacular car festooned with floral decorations, dancers and citizens who decorate themselves with flowers march through the streets to cheerful music.

Other major activities include the "One Philippines" exhibit at the plaza in front of the Seoul City Hall on 29-30 May 2009; the launching of "The Forgotten War" at the National Theater of Korea on 14 April 2009; and the unveiling of the Philippine marker at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea (UNMCK) in Busan on 28 May 2009.

The "One Philippines" exhibit will showcase the history, culture, tradition, and business environment of the Philippines. The two-day event will feature a number of cultural performances, including professional performers from the Philippines and lively street dances.

"The Forgotten War" is a 90-minute feature that tackles the exploits of the Filipino soldiers who participated in the Korean War from 1950-1953 under the auspices of the United Nations Command.

The marker, meanwhile, will pay tribute to the more than 7,000 Filipino soldiers who stood side by side with their South Korean brethren during the Korean War in the 1950s.

Several cultural activities will be held throughout the year.