3 new ambassadors present credentials to Noy

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino welcomed yesterday three new ambassadors in a simple ceremony held at the Music Room of Malacañang.

He received the credentials of Luis Lillo from Chile, Ephraim Ben Matityau of Israel and Jan Top Kristensen of Denmark.

Lillo’s wife, Toni Patchett, daughter Maria Jesus Lillo, Second Secretary and Consul Fernanda Villa and honorary consul Juan Rocha were also present.

Matityau came with his wife, Lizia Zenaida Lu, deputy chief of mission Adam Michael Levene, consul Menashe Doron Abudi and chief of security Roy Artzi.

Kristensen’ wife, Thien Kieu Thi Phung, and Attaché Pia Heide Salman also attended the ceremony.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario joined the President in welcoming the envoys.

The three ambassadors assured Aquino of their respective countries’ commitment to enhance bilateral relations with the Philippines.

Matityau and the President exchanged views on how to strengthen Israeli-Philippine relations, particularly in the areas of high-tech innovation, excellence in research and development, emergency preparedness and agro-technology.

“Israel has 1,301 good reasons to thank the Philippines and you, Mr. President. Your nation has 1,301 good reasons to stand proud before the family of nations as a role model,” Matityau told Aquino.

He noted that the Philippine government under President Manuel Quezon saved 1,300 Jewish people during the Holocaust.

He said the Philippines likewise voted for the United Nations resolution for the creation of the state of Israel.

“Next year, we are going to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II and the liberation of Manila. On that occasion, we hope to dedicate a friendship monument in Manila presented by the people of Israel in appreciation to the Filipino people,” Matityau said.

He expressed appreciation to the thousands of Filipino professionals who participate in development and capacity-building programs in Israel and in the Philippines.

“We hope to see 540 Filipino students coming over to Israel in a unique 11-month internship in agriculture. The door is open to so many more opportunities to the benefit of our nations,” Matityau said.

He also expressed appreciation to Filipinos working as caregivers in Israel, adding that he looks forward to the implementation of a joint committee for science and technology as proposed by Del Rosario.

The President had a brief closed-door meeting with the envoys. – With Pia Lee-Brago