HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has consented to send a congratulatory message to Benigno Simeon C Aquino III, President of the Republic of the Philippines, as well as to the Government and people of the Republic of the Philippines, on the occasion of the 118th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of the Philippines.

In the message, His Majesty said he greatly appreciates the longstanding and warm ties of friendship and cooperation

between the two countries, and looks forward to continuing working with the President of the Republic of the Philippines to strengthen not only the much-valued bilateral relations as close neighbours but also as partners in Asean.

In ending the message, His Majesty extended his kindest regards and very best wishes for a happy celebration to the President of the Republic of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Brunei Darussalam, also sent a similar congratulatory message to his counterpart, Albert F Del Rosario, Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, on the occasion of the 118th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of the Philippines.

In the message, HRH said it has been a great pleasure working with the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines in the past year to strengthen their cooperation as close neighbours and as partners in Asean. HRH said he very much appreciates the goodwill and warm friendship long enjoyed between the people of both countries.

In ending the message, HRH wished all Filipino countrymen and women living and working in Brunei a very happy celebration and thanked them for their many valuable contributions to the Sultanate. - Borneo Bulletin (12 June 2014)