Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

The 101st independence day of the republic of philippines is glorious day for filipinos whereever they are for philippines hearalding into 21st century as asia's latest "economic tiger".

Philippines continue to celebrate freedom to affirm the right of all peoples to self-determination.

President Joseph Estrada continue economic reforms to reap benefits by globalization of countries economy.

Philippines economic management is competent which encourages foreign investment and exports. Philippines export are growing at a healthy rate of 20% and foreign investment at 30%

Every year the student exchange programme is increasing and many nepali students are studying in different universities in philippines.

Nepal is trying to promote Mrs. Manalo, under secretary, Department of Foreign Affaris, Philippines as Director General of UNESCO.

Nepal is working towards bilaterla trade and investment and delegation of philippine businessmen expected in Nepal in november. Recently a delegation of 21 Philippine-Chinese Businessmen visited Nepal to explore bilaterla trade and investment.

Presently our consul generla is in Philippines to meet Nepali students in philippines and find how they are faring and to meet the president and department of foreign affaris offcials to enhance bilaterla ties, trade and investment.

I believe we can do much more to strengthen and enrihc our partnership and cooperation, not only in trade, investments and industry, but hopefully too in many other areas that would yield mutually beneficial returns for the philippines and nepal.

Let me take this opprtunity to offer my best wishes for the prospertiy and health of the president and the people's republic of Philippines living inside and outside Philippines.

MABUHAY AND REPUBLIKA NG PHILIPINAS!

MABUHAY ANG SAMGAYANANG PILIPINO!

MALIGAYANG SENTENARYO SA ATING LAHAT!