Obama sends Independence Day greetings to Filipinos

United States President Barack Obama has sent his greetings to Filipinos on the country’s 112th commemoration of Independence Day. “On behalf of the American people, I send my best wishes to all those who celebrate the 112th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day—here in America, in the Philippines, and around the world," Obama said in a statement sent on Friday night (Saturday in Manila). The US President acknowledged that “many Americans trace their roots to the Philippines" and called the Philippines “an important part of the American identity." The Philippines became an American colony for 48 years, before the United States gave the country its independence in 1946. In the same statement, Obama likewise called for the United States and the Philippines’ continued “partnership in promoting peace and development." “I am confident that our nations, sharing in our democratic principles, will continue our strong friendship and cooperation," he said. Obama has earlier congratulated President-elect Benigno “Noynoy" Aquino III and Vice-president-elect Jejomar "Jojo" Binay for their victory during the country’s automated polls. (See: US President Barack Obama congratulates Aquino, Binay) The US President likewise greeted Filipinos “for carrying out a successful first-ever automated elections" last May 10. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has also earlier offered her congratulations to the Philippines on the 112th anniversary of the declaration of its independence. -- JV, GMANews.TV