Filipino migrant communities in Hong Kong marked the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence with a solemn Mass, interfaith prayers, and a parade celebrating their cultural heritage and shared mission abroad.
The day began with an interfaith prayer service along Chater Road, where Muslim and Protestant leaders joined Catholic participants in offering prayers for good governance, the Filipino people, overseas workers, and diplomatic officials.
A Eucharistic celebration followed, presided over by Divine Word Missionary Father Jay Flandez, chaplain to the Filipino community.
The Mass honored the sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and reaffirmed their spiritual calling in a foreign land, according to Sunday Examiner, the official news site of the Church in Hong Kong.
In his homily, Father Flandez drew parallels between the historical struggle for Philippine independence and the personal journeys of Filipino migrants.
He reminded the faithful that “true freedom comes from the Lord” and urged them to embrace “spiritual discipline” in their lives.
“Spiritual discipline means intentionally choosing to listen to God’s voice rather than to anger or worldly influences, as only God’s guidance brings real liberation,” he said.
He also likened the experience of OFWs to the mission of Christ, noting that many leave their families not for personal gain but out of love and responsibility.
He encouraged them to remain steadfast in their vocation and loyal to their families, saying that perseverance in faith is itself “an act of love.”
The Mass, held on the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, also served as a reminder of the community’s missionary calling to live out the Gospel through daily witness.
Romulo Victor M. Israel, Jr., the newly appointed consul general of the Philippines in Hong Kong, participated in the offertory procession and was joined by other consulate officials, some of whom served as lectors.
Speaking to the Sunday Examiner, Israel said the gathering served to “strengthen community bonds among Filipinos and their friends in Hong Kong.” He added, “It is also a way to empower them as they continue their hard work in Hong Kong.”
As of January 2024, there were approximately 201,104 Filipino domestic helpers in Hong Kong, accounting for 55.6 percent of the city’s total foreign domestic worker population, according to data from the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
Following the Mass, a colorful parade filled the streets with music and movement. Ten men in barong tagalog carried Philippine flags at the head of the procession, followed by floats representing Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. A float featuring a carabao led the Luzon delegation.
