A night of celebration and goodbyes marked Norway’s Constitution Day in Manila, as diplomats gathered in Pasay City to honour both history and a long-standing partnership.
The Royal Norwegian Embassy hosted the reception at Museo del Galeón, where guests from government, diplomacy, and the maritime sector came together, Manila Bulletin reports.
The event also marked 78 years of diplomatic relations between Norway and the Philippines, a partnership often described as anchored in shared interests at sea.
Norwegian Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster used the occasion as both celebration and farewell, as his posting in the Philippines comes to an end. He reflected on the enduring relevance of Norway’s constitution and the values behind it.
“In a world that is marked by growing uncertainty and conflict, these values should never be taken for granted. We should all stand up for a rules-based international order and international law,” said Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster.
He also pointed to the close ties between the two countries, especially in maritime cooperation and people-to-people connections.
“Tonight, we also celebrate the excellent ties between Norway and the Philippines. Ties that have developed into true friendship based on trust and like-mindedness in so many areas,” he added.
From the Philippine side, DFA Undersecretary Leo Herrera-Lim highlighted the historical importance of Norway’s constitution and its relevance today, noting its early commitment to rights and free expression.
The evening also featured a traditional indoor parade, Norwegian seafood, and informal exchanges among diplomats. It served as both a cultural celebration and a reminder of a relationship that has steadily deepened over nearly eight decades, particularly through the maritime industry linking Norwegian shipping with Filipino seafarers.
