MANILA, Philippines— The Rizal Monument and Musical Dancing Fountain in Rizal Park were both illuminated in the European Union’s (EU) blue and yellow colors on May 7 to celebrate this year’s Europe Day.
The Rizal Monument is illuminated on May 7 in blue and yellow to commemorate Europe Day 2023. / EU Delegation
As a project of the National Parks and Development Committee and the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Rizal Monument will remain lit until Europe Day on May 9, according to the EU delegation to the Philippines.
“We are honored to light with European colors the monument dedicated to the Philippines national hero Jose Rizal this weekend,” wrote the delegation in a Tuesday press release.
The Musical Dancing Fountain is lit on May 7 in blue and yellow to commemorate Europe Day 2023. / EU Delegation
“Against the backdrop of the Russian aggression against Ukraine, Europe Day reminds us that peace is at the core of the European integration project. A value that we share with the Philippines. It is a wonderful symbol of the ties that bind the Philippines and the European Union,” it added.
Europe Day is commemorated annually on May 9 to celebrate peace and unity in the continent, according to the delegation. It marks the anniversary of the “Schuman Declaration,” the accord which birthed the European Union.
European Union Ambassador Luc Véron also said in the statement that Europe Day is an “opportunity to signify the partnership and friendship between the European Union and the Philippines” as the two commemorate 60 years of bilateral relations in 2024.
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