DFA Celebrates its 126th Founding Anniversary
(Photo courtesy to DFA-OPD Maria Vanessa Ubac)
MANILA 09 July 2024 – Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique A. Manalo lauded the women and men of the Department and the Foreign Service for another year of exceptional work and considerable accomplishments during the celebration of the 126th foundation anniversary of the DFA at the Bulwagang Apolinario Mabini (BAM).
“Your patriotism, hard work, and professionalism continues to enhance the quality of our service and strengthen our country’s position on the global stage, bringing pride and honor to Filipinos both here and abroad,” said Secretary Manalo, who further emphasized the reason why the DFA is among the highest-rated agencies in the Philippine Government.
The celebration was also highlighted by the conferment of Departmental and Presidential awards, including the prestigious Gawad Mabini, which were given to seven honorees from the DFA in recognition of their exceptional and distinguished accomplishments.
During the event, the new Human Capital Management and Payroll System (HCM&PS) was soft launched. This system is designed to streamline administrative processes, by providing accessible, efficient, and data-driven HR solutions. HCM&PS aims to serve as a bridge—a digital conduit connecting DFA personnel across the globe.
The celebration was attended by DFA employees from the Home Office, Consular Offices and Foreign Services Posts, along with representatives of DFA retirees’ foundations and partner agencies. Performances by the DFA Chorale and Ballet Philippines graced the event.
The DFA was founded on 23 June 1898 as one of the initial four Departments at the very dawn of the first Philippine Republic. Apolinario Mabini was appointed by President Emilio Aguinaldo to lead what was then known as the Department of Foreign Relations, Marine, and Commerce. Today, the DFA is guided by the Constitutional mandate of an independent foreign policy, anchored on the three pillars of the preservation and enhancement of national security, and the protection of the welfare and interests of Filipinos overseas. END
(Photo courtesy to DFA-OPD Maria Vanessa Ubac)
(Photo courtesy to DFA-OPD Maria Vanessa Ubac)
(Photo courtesy to DFA-OPD Maria Vanessa Ubac)
(Photo courtesy to DFA-OPD Maria Vanessa Ubac)
(Photo courtesy to DFA-OPD Maria Vanessa Ubac)