24 June 2016 – On June 16, Philippine Ambassador to Lebanon Leah M. Basinang-Ruiz paid a farewell call on the highest-ranked career official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants (MFAE), Secretary General Ambassador Wafiq Rhaime, during which she provided him with a summary of the developments in Philippines-Lebanon relations.
During her call, Ambassador Ruiz highlighted in particular the Embassy’s sustained efforts to promote the rights and welfare of Filipino migrant workers in Lebanon who work mostly in Lebanese households. The Embassy’s initiatives included cultural activities, which aim to promote mutual understanding and appreciation between Filipinos and the Lebanese.
Ambassador cited the year 2016 as a banner year for bilateral relations because on October 24, 2016, both countries will celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations.
For his part, Ambassador Rhaime reiterated the Ministry’s full support for the Philippine Embassy’s efforts to intensify cooperation in all aspects of the relationship.
Ambassador Ruiz presented Ambassador Rhaime with a Filipiniana gift (a T’boli bell charm) as she concluded her call. END
