Ambassador Effie Ben Matityau said the “Friendship Circle” with a beautiful monument is the culmination of a strong collaborative efforts by the Quezon family, Roxas Foundation, Quirino Foundation and Quezon City government led by Mayor Herbert Bautista, Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte and City Administrator Aldrin Cuña.

The monument design was done by the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts. It highlights three central events in the shared history between the Philippines and Israel.

The first event is the shelter and rescue of Jewish refugees from the holocaust by the noble act of President Quezon through his “Open Door Policy” followed by the open hearts of the Filipinos.

“As a result, 1,300 Jewish people were saved by this country from the Holocaust. 1,300 generations were born ever since. Among them, many generations of Filipino families, created by those refugees who decided to stay and call the Philippines home. The descendants are making a real difference in this society and they are a great bridge of friendship between our countries and Peoples. The Open Door policy is one of the main pillars in our relations ever since,” the Ambassador said.

The second event highlights the historical vote in the United Nations on Resolution 181 on November 29, 1947 which led to the establishment of the State of Israel. This vote was led by President Manuel Roxas and Vice President Elpidio Quirino as Secretary of Foreign Affairs.

“The noble acts of all these leaders laid the foundation of our friendship beyond politics, and the Philippines earned a grateful Jewish people. On behalf of my country, thank you, Philippines!” the Ambassador said.

The third event is the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and the friendship treaty.

“Friends in need are friends indeed is our way of cooperation, which among others, led our two countries to abolish visa requirements already back in 1969. You opened the gates and hearts to our people, we open our gates to you,” Ambassador Ben Matityau said.