The Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Philippines celebrated the 76th anniversary of Independence Day of Sri Lanka at the Official Residence in Manila on 04 February 2024.
In keeping with tradition, the event commenced with Ambassador Dr. Chanaka Talpahewa ceremonially hoisting the National Flag followed by the observance of a two-minutes of silence in remembrance of all who sacrificed their lives on behalf of the motherland. The traditional oil lamp was lit by Ven. Ratthapalo of Wisdom Park, Ven. Zhi Pu of Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple, Rev. Fr. Maximas Pushpakumar of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Gaudalupe; Swami Acharya Prem Shankaranand Tirth, Hindu High Priest, Imam Yusoph Mama Pasawiran of the Imam Council of the Philippines and children from the Sri Lankan community.
Multi-faith religious rites were conducted in accordance with Buddhist, Christian, Hindu and Islam invoking blessings on the occasion.
The Independence Day messages of the President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Foreign Minister M.U.M. Ali Sabry were read in Sinhala, Tamil and English languages, respectively.
The event was attended by over 150 attendees including Filipino well-wishers, the business community and Sri Lankans living in the Philippines.
At the end of the official ceremony, the guests enjoyed traditional Sri Lankan cuisine and was also given a commemorative souvenir.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Manila
09 February 2024
