20 October 2016 — Philippine Ambassador Jesus S. Domingo presented his credentials to His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, the Head of State of the Independent State of Samoa in Apia, Samoa on October 04.

Upon the Ambassador’s arrival at the Head of State’s Residence, he was welcomed with a traditional ‘ava ceremony, where a ceremonial drink or ‘ava (Piper methysticum) was served.

The Presentation of Credentials immediately followed in the Ceremony Room, where Ambassador Domingo presented his Letter of Credence and the Letter of Recall of his predecessor before His Highness.

In his remarks before the Head of State, Ambassador Domingo conveyed the greetings of President Rodrigo Duterte to His Highness and the best wishes of the Government and People of the Republic of the Philippines to the Government and People of the Independent State of Samoa.

He highlighted the Philippines’ dynamic and growing relationship with Samoa, how he would like to advance the people-to-people relationship between the two nations, and push the boundaries of its inter-regional and bilateral relationship.

Ambassador Domingo reiterated his commitment to work more closely with the Samoan government, institutions and citizens to realize the enhancement of Philippines-Samoa relations in their political, economic, socio-cultural and humanitarian dimension, and the fulfillment of the common vision for a peaceful, prosperous and pro-people Asia-Pacific and world community.

In response, His Highness welcomed Ambassador Domingo to Samoa and received his Letter of Credence from President Duterte accrediting him as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of the Philippines to the Independent State of Samoa. His Highness also conveyed his best wishes for the good health and well-being of President Duterte, and the Government and People of the Philippines.

After the ceremony at the Head of State’s Residence, Ambassador Domingo met with Samoa’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Hon. Tuilaepa Lupesoliai Sailele Malielegaoi, at the Office of the Prime Minister. He also met with the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Hon. Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fossie Von Schmidt, that same afternoon at the Government Building in Apia. END