For Immediate Release
{June 12, 2009}

Contact: Michael Eagle
(202) 225-7924

Congresswoman Richardson Introduces Resolution Honoring the 111th Anniversary of the Independence of the Philippines

WASHINGTON —Today, Congresswoman Laura Richardson introduced a resolution honoring the 111th anniversary of the independence of the Philippines, which is officially celebrated every year on June 12th, the date when they gained independence from Spain.

“The United States and the Philippines have been allies for a long time now,” Congresswoman Richardson said.  “It is an honor for me to introduce a resolution into the United States House of Representatives that formally recognizes the bond between our two countries.” 

The resolution recognizes the historic significance of the 111th anniversary of the sovereign and independent country of the Philippines on June 12, 1898.  Further, the resolution:

• Reaffirms the bonds of friendship and cooperation which have existed between the United States and the Philippines and commits to strengthening those bonds.
• Commends the people of the Philippines for enduring through struggle and hardship.
• Reaffirms its support for the Philippines to defend its internal security from terrorism.
• Reaffirms its enduring support for Philippines.
• Supports increased public awareness of the events surrounding the Philippine Declaration of Independence, and the vibrant and beautiful culture of the Philippines.
• Recognizes the courage and bravery of the Filipino and Filipino American servicemen and servicewomen who have fought alongside and in the United States Armed Forces.
• Supports the continuing development of the Filipino American community as an integral part of America’s cultural fabric.

Congresswoman Richardson noted that “the 37th Congressional District is home to approximately 45,000 Filipino Americans.”  I will continue to work on behalf of the Filipino community to ensure that they receive the same representation in Congress as other natural born citizens,” Congresswoman Richardson added.

Congresswoman Richardson is a Democrat from California’s 37th Congressional District. She is a member of the House Committees on Transportation & Infrastructure and Homeland Security.  Her district includes Long Beach, Compton, Carson, Watts, Willowbrooke and Signal Hill.

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