AUTHENTICATION
My Dear Colleagues,
This Holiday Season comes, once again, with the indomitable and resilient Filipino spirit; the legendary warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people; and the improving international competitiveness of the Filipino nation.
From politics and economics, to regional dynamics and international platforms, 2014 is a good year for the Philippines; and 2015 promises to be an even better year.
The Philippine economy continues to grow, and is still considered as one of the most dynamic growth engines in the region. The Aquino administration’s mantra, “Good Governance is the New Normal,” will help ensure that the country sustains this growth momentum.
By 2015, the Philippines will also hit its ‘demographic sweet spot’, with more working people supporting the population.
We are hosting APEC 2015, our second since 1996, which already began this December. The Philippine Chairmanship will help continue to collectively shape the future of the Asia-Pacific region by deepening economic cooperation and building on the achievements of the past 25 years.
We are commencing ASEAN Economic Integration also next year. Our goal is to build a politically cohesive, economically integrated, socially responsible and rules-based regional bloc that will benefit all the citizens of ASEAN.
And true to DFA’s reputation as the “Department that never sleeps,” we continue to constructively address many issues and concerns, challenges and opportunities: from extremism, climate change, and pandemics, to our rule of law advocacy in the West Philippine Sea and strengthening our bilateral relations with allies, neighbors and partners.
In all these developments, what is constant and consistent is the DFA’s strong resolve to be smarter, leaner and more innovative in navigating the turbulent waters of 21st century international diplomacy.
As we count all our blessings for the past year, let me thank the outstanding men and women of the Department for their hard work, commitment and contributions to the Philippine Foreign Service.
A Blessed Christmas and a Meaningful New Year to everyone!
Isang Mapagpalang Pasko at Makahulugang Bagon Taon sa inyong lahat!
ALBERT F. DEL ROSARIO
Secretary of Foreign Affairs
OFFICE OF CONSULAR AFFAIRS 
