As Hungary observes Revolution Memorial Day today, October 23, the nation recalls the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and War of Independence — a defining moment in its struggle for freedom.

In Manila, that same spirit of remembrance was felt last week when the Embassy of Hungary in the Philippines hosted a reception celebrating the revolution’s legacy and the growing friendship between Hungary and the Philippines.

The event, held at Shangri-La The Fort, was highlighted by the first official visit to the Philippines of László Kövér, Speaker of the National Assembly of Hungary. He was joined by Senate majority leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, head of the Philippines-Hungary Parliamentary Friendship Group, along with senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and long-time friends of Hungary.

In his keynote address, Speaker Kövér reflected on the shared commitment of Hungarians and Filipinos to freedom and democracy, saying the commemoration honored both nations’ enduring belief in self-determination and the courage of those who fought for it.

He recalled how the Hungarian people, in 1956, stood united to reclaim their national sovereignty and restore democratic freedoms.

“On October 23, 1956, the Hungarian people stood up for their freedom, national sovereignty, and democracy. In 1956, the Hungarians not only fought a revolution, but also reinforced the ideal of human freedom in the 20th century and left it as a legacy for future generations. Although the revolution failed, history did not stand still: in 1989, Hungary was the first of the Central European countries to peacefully open the way to the full restoration of freedom and democracy. For us, these dates stand as a reminder that freedom is not a single achievement, but a continuous struggle,” Kövér said.

Drawing a parallel with Philippine history, he continued, “Your history also shows that the sacrifice made for freedom is not merely a political struggle, but — above all — the protection of national identity and the future of the community. This shared experience brings us closer together, not only as states, but as peoples who believe in self-determination and the power of democracy.”

Kövér added that despite the distance between them, Hungary and the Philippines are united by their belief that true strength comes from the will of their citizens. “Although oceans separate us geographically, the struggle for freedom still connects us,” he said.

He described Hungarian-Philippine friendship as “not just a diplomatic formula, but an intimate alliance between those who understand that love of nation and the desire for freedom are close to people’s hearts, no matter what continent they live on.”

Kövér also emphasized shared Christian values and moral foundations that bridge the two nations. “The moral principles rooted in faith, respect for the community, and the protection of human dignity are all values that form a bridge between Hungary and the Philippines,” he said. “Freedom is not only a right but also a responsibility, a responsibility toward future generations.”

“In today’s globalized world, it is particularly important to stand up for our independence. Democracy must be defended not only with words, but also with deeds,” he continued, noting that bilateral relations have grown closer, particularly between the two parliaments.

Kövér cited the 2023 visit to Hungary by then Senate President Zubiri as a milestone in strengthening political and economic cooperation.

“A milestone in this process was the visit to Hungary in October 2023 by Juan Miguel Zubiri, former President of the Senate of the Philippines, in the year marking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. This visit not only served to deepen political and economic cooperation between the two countries, but also reinforced our commitment to friendship and mutual respect,” he said.

During the October 14 reception, Kövér also conveyed Hungary’s sympathy for victims of the Cebu earthquake. “Please allow me to express my deepest condolences for those who lost their lives in the Cebu earthquake and to wish strength to their families, and to those who lost their homes in this natural disaster. Our thoughts and prayers are with them!”

He announced that Hungary would extend humanitarian assistance to Cebu, totaling 15 million forints through the National Assembly, the Hungary Helps Programme, and the Catholic Church.

Hungarian Ambassador to the Philippines Titanilla Tóth described the evening as “a historic night — historic in many ways,” highlighting the two countries’ shared democratic values and growing cooperation in education, agriculture, trade, and culture.

The event featured Hungarian cuisine and performances of the csárdás, the country’s iconic folk dance, by the Flaska Band and Hungarian dancers in traditional attire.

As Hungary honors the heroes of 1956, the Manila celebration served as both remembrance and renewal — a tribute to the nation’s fight for freedom and a reaffirmation of its enduring friendship with the Philippines.