WHEREAS, the Government of the Republic of the Philippines, in furtherance of its objectives to develop active and cordial relations between the Philippines and Mexico, first established a Diplomatic Legation in Mexico City on April 23, 1953;

WHEREAS, the close ties which continue to characterize the relations between the Philippines and Mexico are exemplified by the many significant events and cultural exchanges which have linked both nations for over four centuries of our shared histories, such as the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade and their common participation in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) today;

WHEREAS, it is of vital importance to the further strengthening of our bilateral relations to commemorate important milestone in this partnership;

WHEREAS, the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Establishment of Formal Diplomatic Relations between the Republic of the Philippines and the United Mexican States is one such milestone in our nation's relationship;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by law, do hereby declare the period from April 20 to 26, 2003 as Philippine-Mexico Friendship Week.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

Done in the City of Manila, this 25th day of March, in the year of Our Lord, two thousand and three.


By the President:

(Sgd.) ALBERTO G. ROMULO
Executive Secretary