PH Ambassador Pono Presents Credentials to the Emir of Qatar

Philippine Ambassador to Qatar Lillibeth V. Pono with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar. (Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs photo)

DOHA 27 February 2023 – Her Excellency Lillibeth V. Pono, the first female Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of the Philippines to the State of Qatar, presented her Letter of Credence to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar, in a reception ceremony held at the Amiri Diwan (Royal Palace) on 22 February 2023.

The Emir welcomed Ambassador Pono to Qatar and wished her success in her role. He thanked Filipinos for their valuable contribution to Qatari society at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The Emir also noted his interest in engaging with the new Philippine administration.

In response, Ambassador Pono conveyed the President of the Philippines’ warm greetings and best wishes to the Emir and the people of Qatar. She also underscored the Philippine Embassy’s commitment to continue strengthening the bonds of friendship and boosting the economic and cultural cooperation between the two nations. Currently, about 260,000 Filipinos reside or work in Qatar, comprising the fourth largest migrant group in the peninsula.

As a gesture of goodwill and appreciation, Ambassador Pono gifted the Emir with “Panaghiusa,” a mixed-media art piece by Mindanao-based Manobo artist Carlito C. Amalla.

The presentation of credentials began with a procession from the Ambassador’s residence to Amiri Diwan, where she was received by the Commander of the Guard of Honor. Ambassador Pono’s presentation of her Letter of Credence to the Emir was preceded by the playing of “Lupang Hinirang” and “as-Salam al-Amiri,” the national anthems of the Philippines and Qatar, respectively, by the Army Musical Band during the inspection ceremony at the inner yard of the Amiri Diwan. 

Ambassador Pono was accompanied by First Secretary and Consul Cassandra B. Sawadjaan, Third Secretary and Vice Consul Monica Remsy S. Calangian, and Third Secretary and Vice Consul Jeffrey D. Batac during the ceremony. END

Ambassador Lillibeth V. Pono during the playing of “Lupang Hinirang” by the Army Musical Band (Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs photo)

Ambassador Lillibeth V. Pono during the inspection ceremony at the inner yard of the Amiri Diwan. (Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs photo)