The Turkish Embassy in Manila tried to hinder the Armenian Genocide Commemoration Ceremony.

Upon the initiative of the Armenian Embassy in Vietnam, a Holy Liturgy commemorating the Armenian Genocide victims was served in Santuario de San Antonio Parish in the capital of Philippines, Manila, on Tuesday.

The liturgy was attended by the Philippines parliament senators, representatives of Manila city administration, Mayor of Tagum city, heads of the diplomatic missions accredited in the country and the Armenian-Philippines friendship group members.

After the liturgy, a memorial evening was held in Astoria Hotel, Manila, during which the Armenian Ambassador to Philippines, Raisa Vardanyan, and renowned businessman Jeffrey Nug delivered speeches.

Prior to the aforementioned liturgy, the Turkish Consul to Manila took actions to thwart it. The latter contacted the leader of the parish and told him that the liturgy was a political campaign organized by Armenians, which “should be banned to avoid further political consequences.”

According to the MFA information, the Turkish Embassy also sent a note of protest to the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs.

Nevertheless, the liturgy was held, being followed by an event during which the participants were briefed on the Armenian history and Genocide.