French envoy dedicates final Bastille Day in PH to Filipinos

Instead of making France the center of attention during this year’s Bastille Day celebration, French Ambassador Marie Fontanel chose to dedicate her final National Day reception in Manila to the Filipino people who, she said, made her family’s three-year posting “an incredible journey of friendship.”

Addressing diplomats, government officials, and guests at the French National Day celebration on Tuesday evening, Fontanel turned what could have been a farewell speech into a heartfelt tribute to the country she has called home since 2023.

“Tonight, with Alain, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all of you for having made our lives an incredible journey of friendship for three years, sharing every day the true meaning of fraternity,” she said.

“This is why I wanted this year’s celebration to be dedicated to the Filipino people, to the people-to-people ties, to solidarity between France and the Philippines.”

The ambassador, joined by her husband Alain and their three sons, recalled how warmly they had been welcomed upon arriving in the Philippines.

“The Filipino people are known throughout the world for their generosity, hospitality, resilience, and extraordinary sense of community. I, myself, was truly privileged to feel immediately welcome, to feel immediately at home.”

Fontanel said the strength of relations between France and the Philippines goes beyond diplomacy and trade.

“The strength of a bilateral relationship is measured not only by diplomatic agreements or economic exchanges, but by the bonds between their people.”

She highlighted cultural exchanges that have flourished over the past three years, including the French Film Festival, Cine Europa, Fête de la Musique, Goûts de France, educational partnerships, scholarships and youth exchanges.

The ambassador also paid special tribute to French and Filipino civil society organizations working across the country, particularly those supporting women, children, education, environmental protection and social inclusion.

“The past year has been particularly harsh on the Philippines… It is a strong reminder that solidarity matters most in moments of adversity.”

As as she concluded her speech, Fontanel said she was leaving with lasting friendships.

“I seek comfort in reminding me that we made true friends here in the Philippines.”

She ended her farewell with: “Vive la République. Vive la France. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas.”