Tale of Two Choices: 29 November and the Philippines’ Place in History

Yesterday marked 78 years since 29 November 1947 — a historic day not only for Israel and the Middle East, but also for the Philippines, a nation that played a decisive role in shaping the outcome.

 Seventy-eight years ago, the United Nations voted on the Partition Plan, recognizing the right of the Jewish people to reestablish a state in their ancestral homeland. Among the nations casting their votes, the Philippines stood out as the only Asian country to support the plan, an act of moral clarity and courage that remains deeply remembered today.

The Jewish community in the Land of Israel, small and vulnerable at the time, embraced the Partition Plan with urgency and resolve. From that choice grew the modern State of Israel, a thriving democracy, a global center of innovation, science and culture, and a nation known for extending humanitarian aid across the world.

The Arab leadership, however, rejected the proposal. This refusal did not bring about Palestinian statehood but instead triggered wars, the displacement of both Jews and Arabs and decades of missed opportunities. 

In 1947, two states could have emerged side by side had the Arab leadership accepted the partition plan, rather than rejecting it and starting a war. The consequences have echoed ever since, with enormous energy spent not on coexistence but on attempts to undo Israel’s very existence.

Israel’s story since 1947 has been one of resilience, development and the belief that moral clarity and pragmatic compromise can go hand in hand. Throughout its history, Israel has consistently declared and demonstrated its willingness to live in peace with its neighbors, seeking agreements, partnerships and cooperation wherever possible. Its society, despite challenges, has grown into an open, pluralistic and technologically advanced nation — proof that embracing constructive choices can bring enduring progress.

Yet the Philippines’ story with Israel began even earlier. Nearly a decade before the UN vote, President Manuel L. Quezon made a bold and compassionate decision when he opened the Philippines’ doors to more than 1,300 Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi Europe. Despite criticism at home and abroad, he pursued an “open door” policy that saved lives, a gesture of humanity and courage that Israelis continue to honor. 

That early act of solidarity paved the way for the spirit of mutual trust that continues to shape the relationship between our nations today.

These two historic choices  — President Quezon’s rescue and the Philippines’ 1947 vote–laid the foundation for the deep friendship our nations enjoy today. This legacy is evident in our collaboration across multiple sectors, reflecting our shared values of resilience, innovation and compassion.

Today, as Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines for the past four months, I have had the privilege of witnessing this partnership firsthand. In every interaction and visit, I see Filipinos and Israelis working side by side, in agriculture, water management, health solutions, cybersecurity, fintech, telecommunications, sustainable development and disaster preparedness — partnerships built on shared determination, creativity and resilience. These collaborations are practical, innovative and grounded in a shared desire to improve lives and build strong, resilient communities.

As we mark the anniversary of 29 November, we honor the Philippines for standing firmly on the side of recognition, dignity and moral principle — values that continue to guide our friendship today. And we hold on to the hope that one day Palestinian leaders will make their own historic choice — to embrace coexistence, recognize the legitimacy of the other and build a future in which both peoples can finally thrive.