Royal file: the 5 favorite moments of King Philippe's reign

This week, our Royal Chronicler RTL, Patrick Weber draws up a review of the 5 best moments of King Philippe's reign after 5 years on the throne.

From July 21, 2013 to date, King Philippe has sat on the throne of the kingdom of Belgium by imposing his personality, his simplicity and a great humanity. Back to the highlights of this reign.

July 21, 2013: Philip ascends the throne

A no-fault on the first day

The ominous birds predicted the most difficult succession in the history of the Belgian monarchy. And yet this day of July 21, 2013 was a total success. From the speech pronounced perfectly in front of the rooms taking into account the institutional evolutions of the country to the party in the park, while pbading by the military parade, the appearances with the balcony and the fireworks, Philippe succeeded his first day of reign. Moreover, the seventh king of the Belgians keeps an excellent memory five years later.

December 2013: Philippe meets the dustmen

Philippe likes surprise

The King is a very organized man who likes to have complete control over his agenda. He is not very fond of unexpected surprises, but if he chooses surprises, he does not hesitate to do so. This is particularly the case when he decides to go meet the garbage workers in Brussels or to participate in breaking the fast in a Muslim family in Ghent. Events are not subject to prior notice so as not to spoil the spontaneous side of things. But their media impact is even stronger.

September: Philippe goes back to school

A dad like all dads?

In any case it is image that Philip wants to give. He is like many dads of the kingdom, in September, accompanying his children to school. He is there to encourage them, to wish them good luck or to dry the tears of Prince Emmanuel, who is in great sorrow when he begins his new school year. And to those who believe that these media sessions are only communication, you must know that Philippe has always been there when the children needed him … and not always in front of the cameras! In Belgium, we have rarely seen a sovereign who fully plays his role of dad.

July 2017: Philippe kitesurfing

For those who doubt it, the King of the Belgians is very sporty!

Philippe also tries new experiences, without fearing strong emotions. This is the case of kitesurfing sessions (very trendy and broadcast on the net) but also some motorsports that allow this pbadionate philosophy to gain height. Philippe never forgot his military training as a fighter pilot. There is no shortage of opportunity to fly a helicopter as soon as the opportunity is given. Piloting is a practice that imposes a maximum of self-control, an essential quality in the eyes of our sovereign. But his greatest pleasure is perhaps the endurance race, a symbol when you are king of the Belgians!

October 2016: Philippe visits Japan

The future emperor is his great

During his state visit to Japan, Philippe had offered a morning jog session with Crown Prince Naruhito, of whom he is very close. Philippe loves Japan and extends the tradition of friendship between the two countries that goes back to the reign of King Albert I and was encouraged by King Baudouin. Generally speaking, this great sportsman, King Philippe, enjoys the diplomacy of jogging, as can also be seen in his princely strides with Prince Frederik of Denmark.