Why Mexico Matters to Filipinos
Despite being geographically distant from each other, Mexico and the Philippines share a significant historical, cultural, and economic connection. This connection dates back to the Spanish colonial period, when both countries were under Spanish rule for more than three centuries. Today, Mexico remains important to Filipinos for various reasons, including its influence on Philippine cuisine and culture, its role in the Philippine economy, and the ongoing educational and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Shared Colonial History between Mexico and the Philippines
Mexico and the Philippines share a common colonial past, having been colonized by the Spanish Empire for over 300 years. This shared history has resulted in a mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s culture. The two countries have similar religious practices, as Catholicism was introduced by the Spanish colonizers. Moreover, both Mexico and the Philippines have inherited many Spanish-influenced customs and traditions, which are still evident today.
Mexico’s Influence on Philippine Cuisine and Culture
Mexican cuisine has influenced Philippine cuisine in many ways. One example is the use of chili peppers, which were introduced to the Philippines by the Mexicans during the colonial period. Filipino dishes like adobo and sinigang have also been influenced by Mexican cooking techniques, such as the use of vinegar and souring agents. Additionally, Mexican culture has also influenced Philippine arts, music, and language, particularly in the southern regions of the Philippines.
Mexico’s Role in the Philippine Economy
Mexico is an important trading partner of the Philippines, with bilateral trade between the two countries reaching $1.3 billion in 2019. Mexican companies have invested in various industries in the Philippines, such as automotive, electronics, and food processing. Mexico is also an important source of remittances for Filipinos, with an estimated 16,000 Filipinos working and living in Mexico.
Filipino-Mexican Political Relations
The Philippines and Mexico have maintained diplomatic relations since the 1950s. The two countries have signed various agreements on trade, cultural exchanges, and education. Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto visited the Philippines in 2015 to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, where he met with Philippine President Benigno Aquino III.
Educational and Cultural Exchanges between the Two Countries
There have been several educational and cultural exchanges between the Philippines and Mexico. The University of the Philippines and the Autonomous University of Nuevo León in Mexico have a student exchange program, which allows students to study in each other’s countries. Moreover, the Mexican government offers scholarships to Filipinos who wish to study in Mexico.
Mexican Investments in the Philippines
Mexican companies have invested in various industries in the Philippines, such as the automotive industry, electronics, and food processing. One example is Bimbo Bakeries, a Mexican company that acquired the local bread brand, Gardenia, in 2013. Another example is Nemak, a Mexican company that produces aluminum parts for the automotive industry, which has a factory in the Philippines.
Mexican Community in the Philippines
There are around 16,000 Mexicans living and working in the Philippines, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. The Mexican community in the Philippines is involved in various sectors, such as business, education, and cultural organizations. The Mexican Embassy also hosts cultural events throughout the year, such as the Mexican Film Festival and the Mexican Independence Day celebration.
Philippine Embassies in Mexico
The Philippines has two embassies in Mexico, one in Mexico City and another in Havana, Cuba. The embassy in Mexico City is responsible for maintaining diplomatic relations with the Mexican government and for providing consular services to Filipinos living in Mexico. The embassy in Havana, meanwhile, is responsible for diplomatic relations with Cuba.
Philippine-Mexican Trade Agreements
The Philippines and Mexico have signed several trade agreements over the years, which have helped boost bilateral trade between the two countries. In 2017, the Philippines signed a free trade agreement with Mexico, which eliminated tariffs on various goods, such as agricultural products, automotive parts, and electronics. This agreement has helped increase the volume of trade between the two countries.
Filipino Tourists in Mexico
Mexico is a popular tourist destination among Filipinos, with many Filipino travelers visiting the country to experience its rich culture and historical landmarks. The Mexican government has also made efforts to promote Mexico as a tourist destination in the Philippines, with the opening of the Mexican Tourism Board office in Manila in 2019.
Conclusion: The Continuing Importance of Mexico to the Philippines
Despite being separated by thousands of kilometers of land and sea, Mexico and the Philippines share a unique and lasting connection that has endured through the years. From their shared colonial history to their ongoing cultural and economic ties, Mexico remains an important partner and friend to Filipinos. As both countries continue to seek ways to strengthen their relationship, it is clear that the importance of Mexico to the Philippines will only continue to grow.
