WELLINGTON - The Philippine Embassy in New Zealand commemorated the 128th Anniversary of Philippine Independence through a flag raising ceremony held at the Lower Hutt City Council in the morning of 12 June 2026.

The event marked the Embassy’s first ever public Independence Day flag raising ceremony in New Zealand.

The ceremony was attended by Lower Hutt Mayor Fauono Ken Laban, whose presence underscored the strong ties between the Filipino community and local government. The Philippine flag was raised in partnership with the Knights of Rizal Wellington Chapter before members of the Filipino community, who came together to celebrate the nation’s independence.

In her remarks, Ambassador Kira Azucena expressed her appreciation to Mayor Laban and the Lower Hutt City Council for graciously hosting the ceremony and providing an opportunity for Filipinos in New Zealand to celebrate this significant milestone in Philippine history.

The Ambassador also read President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Independence Day Message and highlighted the President’s reminder that the freedoms and privileges enjoyed by Filipinos today are precious legacies handed down by previous generations. She emphasized that these freedoms come with the responsibility to uphold the values of patriotism, unity, and service.

For his part, Mayor Laban welcomed the Filipino community and acknowledged their valuable contribution to the social, cultural, and economic life of Lower Hutt. He highlighted the importance of celebrating cultural diversity and fostering a strong sense of belonging among all communities in the city.

The ceremony featured the singing of the Philippine National Anthem led by FilCoro choir, a Filipino choir based in Wellington. The event concluded with a fellowship over Filipino breakfast. - END

In her remarks, Ambassador Kira Azucena expressed her appreciation to Mayor Laban and the Lower Hutt City Council for graciously hosting the ceremony and providing an opportunity for Filipinos in New Zealand to celebrate this significant milestone in Philippine history.

In his message, Mayor Laban highlighted the importance of celebrating cultural diversity and fostering a strong sense of belonging among all communities in the city.

Ambassador Kira Azucena and Mayor Ken Laban during the flag raising ceremony.

FilCoro choir, a Filipino choir based in Wellington led the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.

Group photo with Ambassador Azucena and Mayor Laband with the Embassy personnel, Knights of Rizal and FilCoro choir.

Photos courtesy of Mr. Alan Raga