REMARKS/TOAST
by
His Excellency Willy C. Gaa,
Ambassador of the Philippines to the United States
at the Reception Celebrating the Inauguration of
His Excellency Barack Obama
as the Forty-Fourth President of the United States of America
Embassy of the Philippines, Washington D.C.
January 19, 2009, 5-7 p.m.
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Good evening and welcome.
Tonight we share the joy of the American nation as they celebrate the historic inauguration
of President Barack Obama.
This great point in history comes at a time of great challenge for America and for all nations.
At this crucial moment, the Philippines stands as one with America and its leadership.
We will not falter as we pursue our mutual goals. We will remain firmly committed to our
common values and ideals of freedom and democracy. We will honor our shared history and
the brave sacrifices of both Filipinos and Americans that have allowed us to remain free.
Now more than ever, the Philippines looks forward to even greater cooperation and stronger
alliance with America. We will intensify our partnership in reducing poverty under the
Millennium Challenge Account. We will intensify our efforts for the passage of the veterans
equity bill. Hand in hand, we will promote human rights and continue to fight terror and
safeguard peace. We will remain steadfast in our support for Filipino American associations
in the United States.
Filipinos in America are the living symbols of the historic friendship between our two nations.
They have made valuable contributions to America, but have always helped out back home
in the Philippines. They have done well in their communities in this country. I take this
opportunity to make special mention of the recent outstanding achievement made by our
very own Congressman Steve Austria of Ohio.
Congressman Austria is the first son of a Filipino immigrant and the second Filipino American,
after Congressman Bob Scott of Virginia, to become a member of the U.S. House of
Representatives. His father, the late Dr. Clement G. Austria, a World War II veteran, served
with the guerilla forces in Quezon.
Congressman Austria has made both Americans and Filipinos proud. Let us applaud him and
wish him well.
I support Congressman Austria’s suggestion that we should encourage Filipino Americans to
involve themselves more in mainstream politics by nurturing and expanding Filipino American
organizations. A united Filipino American community will give a stronger voice to this big
minority group in the U.S.
There has been much talk about forging a new Filipino American agenda. I am glad our dear
friend Greg Macabenta of NaFFAA is leading this initiative and we should also applaud him.
With the new President, who exudes a universal appeal and promotes inter-racial
understanding, the Filipino American community will go a long way with their goals and
aspirations. The Friends for Obama, who are here with us tonight, can certainly affirm this. I
am sure you will take care of us. Thank you Bing Branigin for bringing here the Friends for
Obama.
President Obama stands for hope and change. But he cannot do these alone.
Filipino-Americans can help transform hope into reality and bring forth change.
By expanding your networks, remaining committed and inspired, by building your capacities,
and by working together in the spirit of unity, you definitely can.
I would now like to propose a toast to the Filipino-American community, to the ensuring
friendship between the Philippines and the United States, to the future close partnership
between our leaders, and to President Barack Obama.
Mabuhay si President Obama! Mabuhay ang America! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
Magandang Gabi po sa inyong lahat.
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Philippine Embassy
News Release
19 January 2009
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