18 February 2014 – New Philippine Ambassador Catalino R. Dilem Jr. presented his credentials to Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto at the National Palace in the historic center of Mexico City on February 14.

Accompanied by Philippine Embassy officials, Consul Angelo V. Amonoy, Consul Jason Jovencio A. Anasarias and Administrative Officer Bernardo G. Bagalay, Ambassador Dilem wore a traditional Filipino barong that earned the admiration from onlookers.

During the presentation of his letters of credence, Ambassador Dilem conveyed to President Peña Nieto the greetings of President Benigno S. Aquino III.

He also expressed the profound gratitude of the Philippine Government to the solidarity expressed by the Mexican Government to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) last October 2014. The Mexican Government donated US$ 1million for the typhoon victims.

The Ambassador also noted the close historical ties between the Philippines and Mexico and expressed his commitment towards enhancing cooperation between the two countries in the field of trade, culture and other mutually beneficial areas.

After the ceremony, the Ambassador presided over a short press briefing that recapped the proceedings at the ceremony. This was followed by the rendition of the Philippine national anthem by the military band.

Prior to his assignment in Mexico, Ambassador Dilem previously served as deputy chief of mission and consul general of the Philippine Embassy in Madrid from July 2012 to January 2014, consul general of the Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona from August 2008 to July 2012, and deputy chief of mission and consul general of the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta from July 2002 to October 2008. He also served as a junior Foreign Service Officer in Moscow, Russia and Santiago, Chile. END