77th Independence Day of Sri Lanka celebrated in PH

THE Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Philippines celebrated the 77th anniversary of Independence Day of Sri Lanka at the Official Residence in Manila on Feb. 4, 2025.

In keeping with tradition, the event commenced with Ambassador Chanaka Talpahewa ceremonially hoisting the National Flag, singing of the National Anthem and observance of two minute-silence in remembrance of all who sacrificed their lives on behalf of the motherland.

This was followed by lighting the traditional oil lamp by the religious dignitaries: Ven. Zhi Pu of Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple; Rev. Fr. Viraj Fonseka of the San Antonio Padua Parish; Swami Acharya Prem Shankaranand Tirth, Hindu High Priest; and Imam Dr. Akmad Wahab Al-Haj, OIC of Coast Guard Ecumenical Chaplain Service in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao on Muslim Affairs.

SRI LANKA'S INDEPENDENCE DAY COMMEMORATION IN MANILA The photo shows religious dignitaries during the lighting of the traditional oil lamp. PHOTO FROM EMBASSY OF SRI LANKA, MANILA

Multi-faith religious rites were conducted in accordance with Buddhist, Christian, Hindu and Islam to invoke blessings to the occasion. Further, Ven. Gandowawila Chandima also gave blessings in accordance with the Theravada Buddhist Faith and conducted Pansil.

The event was attended by over 100 including members of the Sri Lankan community with some who traveled from distant places to Manila the previous day to be present at the event as well as Filipino well-wishers and members of the business community.