Poland’s President H.E. Andrzej Duda with the troops

President Andrzej Duda: “Poland’s independence was an achievement of generations of Poles.”

Ambassador Paez (extreme right) with the Ambassador of Argentina H.E. Patricia Beatriz Salas (center) and the Ambassador of Croatia H.E. Ms. Andrea Bekic (extreme left)

Poland’s military forces

Wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers

Poles who are noted and respected for their fierce patriotism, trooped to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers, despite the winter chill; families went with children and for some, even babies, in tow

Independence Day streamer

            Philippine envoy to Poland Ambassador Patricia Ann V. Paez attended the events in celebration of Poland’s Independence Day on 11 November 2016, namely, the morning ceremonial changing of the guards and wreath-laying at the Tomb of Unknown Soldiers and the afternoon reception at the Presidential Palace.

            In his speech, President Andrzej Duda stressed that “Poland’s independence was an achievement of generations of Poles.” He added: “It was an achievement of the people who opposed ... those who were called traitors. The heroes, the architects of Poland’s independence would surely want us to be united as far as fundamental matters are concerned. And it is an independent and sovereign Poland, one Poland for all of us which is a foundation.”

            In the afternoon, President Duda hosted members of the diplomatic corps, national and local government officials, key political figures, war veterans, and representatives of several non-government organizations.

            Poland’s Independence Day is celebrated every 11 November to commemorate Poland’s independence in 1918 after 123 years of having been partitioned by Russia, Prussia and Austria.