DFA Chief of Protocol Champions Stronger Collaboration with Consular Corps
Assistant Secretary Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda delivers his remarks during the Ninth General Membership Monthly Meeting of the Consular Corps of the Philippines.
MANILA 04 December 2024 — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Chief of Protocol, Assistant Secretary Ariel R. Peñaranda, emphasized the importance of partnership and collaboration during the Ninth General Membership Monthly Meeting of the Consular Corps of the Philippines on 27 November 2024. Held at Fairmont Hotel in Makati City, the event brought together members of the consular and diplomatic community to strengthen ties and address shared challenges in consular work.
In his keynote address, Assistant Secretary Peñaranda underscored the critical role of the Consular Corps in bridging diplomacy and public service. “The work of the Consular Corps brings diplomacy closer to the everyday lives of individuals, addressing the human dimensions of international relations,” he stated. Peñaranda praised the Corps for its efforts in facilitating trade, cultural exchanges, and humanitarian assistance, highlighting their immediate impact on citizens and foreign nationals in times of both celebration and crisis.
Assistant Secretary Peñaranda also detailed the Office of Protocol's key contributions to supporting the Consular Corps, including expediting accreditations, facilitating airport access, and ensuring smooth coordination with government agencies. To further enhance collaboration, he proposed the introduction of “Consular Corps Coffee with the COP,” a quarterly meeting initiative aimed at fostering open communication and addressing pressing issues proactively.
The program also featured a keynote by Thai Ambassador Tull Traisorat who shared insights on Thailand’s diplomatic engagement with the Philippines.
Dean Consul Jesus Pineda Jr., Honorary Consul of Fiji and Dean of the Consular Corps, remarked on Assistant Secretary Peñaranda's leadership, stating: “Your leadership in overseeing the activities of the career and honorary consuls of the Philippines is pivotal in strengthening the efficiency and professionalism of our nation's diplomatic services.”
During the meeting, Dean Consul Pineda announced that his term as Dean of the Consular Corps will conclude at the end of the year. He introduced Consul General Fabio Pompetti, Consul General of Belgium, as the incoming Dean, who will assume the role starting January 1, 2025.
The Consular Corps of the Philippines is an association of honorary and career consuls representing various countries. Their mission includes facilitating trade, promoting cultural exchanges, and addressing the welfare of nationals. END
Assistant Secretary Ariel R. Peñaranda (2nd row, 4th from left) and Honorary Consul of Fiji and Dean of the Consular Corps, Jesus Pineda Jr. (2nd row, 6th from left), with members of the Consular Corps of the Philippines and guest ambassadors from various embassies.
Assistant Secretary Ariel R. Peñaranda (2nd from left) and H.E. Tull Traisorat (rightmost), Ambassador of the Royal Thai Embassy in Manila, receive the Plaque of Appreciation presented by Honorary Consul of Fiji and Dean of the Consular Corps, Jesus Pineda Jr. (3rd from left), and Honorary Consul General of Costa Rica, Fausto Preysler Jr. (1st from left).
Assistant Secretary Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda (left) converses with Honorary Consul of Fiji and Dean of the Consular Corps of the Philippines, Jesus Pineda Jr..