Envoy highlights ‘blooming’ relations between PH and Hungary

By Marinel E. Peroy

Hungarian Ambassador Titanilla Tóth underscored the flourishing ties between Hungary and the Philippines as she marked the 68th anniversary of Hungary’s 1956 Revolution during a reception held on October 17. She reflected on the deepening partnership between the two nations, which was further celebrated during last year’s 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

In her remarks, Tóth highlighted the shared historical and cultural values that bind the two countries, drawing a parallel between Hungary’s national poet and revolutionary, Sándor Petőfi, and the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. She emphasized that the connection extends beyond diplomacy to shared ideals, with both countries cherishing their respective heroes who fought for freedom.

“It’s not possible to forbid the flower to bloom in spring, but it has the power,” she said, using the metaphor of a blooming flower to symbolize the growing relationship between Hungary and the Philippines.

Ambassador Tóth pointed to recent high-level visits and cultural exchanges that have propelled bilateral relations to new heights. The June 2024 meeting between Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. marked a significant step forward, especially in economic collaboration. Ongoing discussions between Szijjártó and Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo also focus on strengthening trade, technology, and education partnerships.

The ambassador noted that bilateral trade between the two nations reached over $199 million in 2023, spanning various sectors such as agriculture, space research, energy, healthcare, and food and water management. Last month, the opening of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) office in Budapest marked another milestone, further enhancing people-to-people ties.

In addition, Hungary will offer 35 scholarships to Filipino students through the Stipendium Hungaricum program this November, promoting academic and cultural exchange. Plans for a Business Forum in December and a Joint Commission Economic Cooperation meeting signal further efforts to fortify economic links.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Tóth expressed optimism about the future of the two nations’ relations. “Together, let us build on this friendship as we look ahead to the next 50 years,” she said, reaffirming the enduring bond between Hungary and the Philippines—a relationship that continues to thrive like a flower in full bloom.