MANILA, Philippines - The Commission on Appointments (CA) recently confirmed Philippe Lhuillier as ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to Portugal. The European country is a strategic state due to its historical and linguistic alliance with Lusophone countries which include Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, East Timor, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, and São Tomé and Príncipe. Portugal and the Philippines have always supported each other in various international fora. The Philippines can build on this relationship to further strengthen its ties with other rising stars in the Lusophone bloc such as Angola and Brazil. Photo shows CA vice chairman Parañaque Rep. Roilo Golez (left) and CA chairman Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile with Ambassador Lhuillier after the confirmation proceedings.