Page 2 - NYPCG - KAAKBAY 2018 July to December

2 July to December
2018

Year End Message of the Philippine Ambassador to the United States
Jose Manuel G. Romualdez

I join kababayans in the United States of America and the Caribbean region in celebrating the
holiday season with a heart brimming with gratitude and optimism for 2019.

Through the strength, resilience, and determination of the Filipino people, the Philippines
continues to be on an upward trajectory. The passage of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion
(TRAIN) Act, the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act, and the implementation of the Build
Build Build infrastructure program, will solidify the gains of sustained economic growth and enhance its inclusiveness.

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The unwavering bayanihan spirit has enabled the Filipinos to recover, rebuild, and nurture hope, even in the face of
numerous natural disasters. The ongoing rehabilitation of Marawi City represents the resolve of our Government and our people
to surmount the most difficult of challenges on the path towards a more peaceful and prosperous future.

The return of the Balangiga Bells to the Philippine soil this month symbolizes the mutual commitment of the American
and Filipino people to honor their shared history by moving forward together.

I share the admiration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for our kababayans overseas who, by their dedication,
compassion, and perseverance, embody the best of the Filipino around the world. Overseas Filipinos continue to make vital,
positive, and lasting contributions not only to the Philippine economy, but also to the development of their host societies.

All of us at the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C., the Consulates General, and the honorary consul offices,
pledge to continue serving our kababayans in the US and the Caribbean region with the utmost degree of professionalism,
integrity, and honor. We remain committed to working with our Filipino communities in securing a comfortable life for all
Filipinos and forging strong friendships with the rest of the world.

Maligayang Paslo at Manigong Bagong Taon!

JOSE MANUEL G. ROMUALDEZ
Ambassador