DFA Launches “Women in Diplomacy: The Remarkable Ambassadors in the PH Foreign Service”

Former Secretary of Foreign Affairs Delia D. Albert (seventh from right, first row) with the women Ambassadors and key officials who attended the launch. (DFA photo by Vanessa Ubac)

MANILA 25 October 2019 — Following the launch of the book “Women in Diplomacy: The Remarkable Ambassadors in the Philippine Foreign Service” at the sidelines of the Global Conference of Heads of Posts (GCHOP) on 08 October 2019 in Makati City, the Department of Foreign Affairs, through the initiative of Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia D. Albert held an official launch at the Carlos P. Romulo Library on 11 October 2019.

The launch was attended by key officials, active and retired men and women Ambassadors, and DFA personnel. During the launch, Former Secretary Albert introduced the book and thanked all the women Ambassadors who contributed their reflections featured in the book. She also mentioned that she drew inspiration to undertake the book project from an observation made by former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan when she chaired the United Nations Security Council in 2004. His observations made the Former Secretary think of the many remarkable Filipino women diplomats serving with dedication around the world whose achievements are worth the recognition.

Five women Ambassadors, namely Ambassador Jocelyn Batoon-Garcia, Ambassador Narcisa Escaler, Ambassador Celia Anna Feria, Ambassador Linglinglay Lacanlale, and Ambassador Grace Princesa whose stories were featured in the book served as panelists. They shared the highlights of their journey as diplomats, how they were able to overcome the challenges of working in a male-dominated profession while advancing not only the national interests of the country but also address the aspirations of a Filipino diplomat, whether male or female.

The book, a first of its kind, was well-received by the key officials, Ambassadors, and the DFA personnel. Ambassador Eduardo Meñez, Ambassador Rosalinda Tirona, and Foreign Service Officer IV Ms. May-I Fabros of UNIO who served as reactors expressed their commendations during the launch and said that the stories in the book would serve as an inspiration to the new generation of Filipino diplomats who aspire to serve the country well.

To date, a total of 90 women ambassadors have served in the Philippine Foreign Service. Former Secretary Albert announced that she had begun work on the second volume to include the many others who were not able to contribute to Volume 1. END

Former Secretary of Foreign Affairs Delia D. Albert delivers her opening remarks during the book launch before panelists and reactors. (DFA photo by Vanessa Ubac)