DFA Welcomes New Ambassadors After Presenting Credentials to President Marcos

The Department of Foreign Affairs hosts a dinner reception for the newly accredited non-resident ambassadors, celebrating diplomatic relations and mutual cooperation.

MANILA 25 March 2025 – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) welcomed newly accredited non-resident ambassadors with a diplomatic dinner following their presentation of credentials to His Excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in the morning of 19 March 2025. Non-resident ambassadors are diplomats accredited to a host country but based elsewhere, usually in a nearby country, covering diplomatic duties remotely.

The reception, held at Manila Diamond Hotel, was led by Undersecretary for Administration Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, joined by senior DFA officials, including Assistant Secretary and Chief of Protocol Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda and Chief Coordinator Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez.

The following non-resident Ambassadors attended the dinner:

• H.E. François Balumuene Nkuna of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
• H.E. Miguel de Mascarenhas de Calheiros Velozo of the Portuguese Republic
• H.E. Analisa Lianna Low of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
• H.E. Victor Hugo Rojas González of the Republic of Costa Rica
• H.E. Harold Burgos of the Republic of Honduras
• H.E. Pavlin Todorov of the Republic of Bulgaria
• H.E. Mukasine Marie Claire of the Republic of Rwanda
• H.E. Michel Leesch of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

In her remarks, Undersecretary De La Vega warmly welcomed the ambassadors and highlighted the Philippines' commitment to fostering strong diplomatic ties:

"Tonight’s gathering reflects the Filipino approach to diplomacy—rooted in hospitality, dialogue, and bridge-building, where meaningful conversations, especially over a good meal, often lead to lasting partnerships. We hope to nurture meaningful friendships and reaffirm that you will always find a home here—a place that welcomes you with warm hearts."

She also highlighted the Philippines’ candidature for a seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), emphasizing the country’s role as a Partner, Pathfinder, and Peacemaker, committed to peace, the rule of law, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Speaking on behalf of the ambassadors, Ambassador Velozo, Ambassador of Portugal, expressed gratitude to the Philippine Government and the DFA for the warm welcome and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening relations and exploring new areas of cooperation.

The evening reflected the DFA’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic partnerships and deepening the Philippines’ engagement with the international community.

Among the other officials present were Assistant Secretary Maria Elena P. Algabre, Assistant Secretary Maria Teresa T. Almojuela, Deputy Assistant Secretary Renato N. Dueñas Jr., and Acting Director Mylhyn M. Acosta. END

Undersecretary Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega presents tokens of appreciation to the newly accredited non-resident ambassadors as a gesture of friendship and goodwill

Undersecretary for Administration Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega and other DFA officials pose with the newly accredited non-resident ambassadors.