Ties that bind Ambassador Effie Ben Matityau of Israel unveils the “Dedication Marker” as a sign of friendship between his country and the Philippines. ROMAN PROSPERO Quezon’s “Open Door” policy allowed over 1,300 European Jewish refugees to go to the Philippines during the war.

National and local government officials led yesterday’s celebration of the 140th birth anniversary of the late President Manuel L. Quezon.

The celebration included the laying of floral wreaths from President Rodrigo Duterte, Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Effie Ben Matityau and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) in front of Quezon’s bust at the Quezon Memorial Circle.

Matityau lauded Quezon, particularly for helping Jewish refugees during World War II.

He noted Quezon’s “Open Door” policy allowed over 1,300 European Jewish refugees to go to the Philippines during the war to avoid persecution by the Nazis.

Matityau also unveiled a “Dedication Marker” donated by the Israel Embassy as symbol of the friendship between the Philippines and Israel.

Quezon’s descendants were also present during the rites. Yael Buencamino Borromeo, Quezon’s great granddaughter, delivered her family’s message thanking the people of Quezon City for remembering the late President’s birth anniversary.

The celebration also included the formal opening of the new Presidential Car Museum led by presidential spokesman Harry Roque, Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista and NHCP executive director Ludovico Badoy.

Located inside Quezon Memorial Circle, the museum features 12 cars used by various Presidents of the Philippines that were restored by the NHCP. CRP