The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Philippine ties with other nations to secure Filipinos’ freedoms and provide them opportunities within and beyond the country’s shores on the 128th Independence Day.

In a statement released on Friday, DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said that their department and sub-agencies are continuously working to improve the Philippines’ relations with other countries and obtain connections necessary for opportunities in the areas of education, energy, health, and national security.

“The women and men of the Philippine Foreign Service work tirelessly to strengthen our relations with all countries and peoples, expand economic and educational opportunities, contribute to energy and health security initiatives, and defend and protect overseas Filipinos, among other endeavors,” the statement read.

“We remain steadfast in serving the Filipino people—both at home and abroad,” it added.

Nurturing international connections, the agency said, is crucial amid the “increasingly complex” and volatile global landscape.

Moreover, the DFA said it looks to Philippine history for inspiration and lessons learned, aiming to lead with the same courage and determination as the country’s forefathers.

“Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan. As we honor our history, let us continue to responsibly exercise our freedoms and pursue opportunities that will secure a brighter future for every Filipino,” the department said.