MTA LIRR East End Gateway at Penn Station | Photo by Troi Santos
NEW YORK – Thirteen New York State landmarks are illuminated today with the Philippine national colors of blue, red, and yellow to commemorate Philippine Independence Day. These landmarks will be lit from dusk on Wednesday, June 12, until sunrise on Thursday, June 13, 2024.
According to John Bahia, NYS Assemblymember Steven Raga’s communications director, they coordinated the illumination of the state landmarks with the Philippine Consulate General and the office of New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
The following 13 New York State landmarks will be illuminated:
- One World Trade Center
- Governor Mario C. Cuomo Bridge
- Kosciuszko Bridge
- The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
- State Education Building
- Empire State Plaza
- State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
- Niagara Falls
- Albany International Airport Gateway
- MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
- Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
- Moynihan Train Hall
- Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken issued a statement congratulating the people of the Philippines on celebrating their Independence Day.
Blinken reaffirmed the “longstanding US-Philippines alliance” and noted “the long and interwoven history and shared sacrifice.” He said the United States is proud of its work with the Philippines “to reaize our shared ideals as democracies, uphold inernational law, pursue inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and promote human rights.”
He recalled the recent strides the US and the Philippines made in scientific and technology cooperation, economic investment, and security collaboration, which he said “reflect the mutual priority we place on this pivotal relationship.”
Blinken also emphasized the US’s unwavering commitment to the defense of the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty, mainly as they work together to uphold international law in the South China Sea.
“More broadly, we remain committed to working alongside the Philippines,” Blinken said, “as friends, partners, and allies, as we strive for a safer, more prosperous world.”
