On 7 October 2011, the new Philippine Ambassador to Italy, H.E. Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. presented copies of his credentials to the Honorable Stefano Ronca, Head of Protocol of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Philippine Embassy in Rome will be advised on the schedule of the presentation of credentials of the new Ambassador to the President of the Italian Republic, His Excellency Giorgio Napolitano.
Soon after his arrival in Rome in the last week of September, the Ambassador undertook several introductory and consultative meetings with the Embassy staff and officers as well as members of the Filipino community.
In these meetings, Ambassador Reyes outlined his priorities, in accordance with the Aquino Social Contract. He specified the need for the revitalization of certain bilateral areas of cooperation such as trade and investment, culture and tourism. He likewise highlighted the importance of the active participation of the Philippines in UN and international organizations based in Rome to guard core national interests such as food security, agricultural development and climate change.
The Ambassador further acknowledged and expressed support for the existing valuable programs for Filipinos in Italy, and committed to an engaged and vibrant relationship with host country officials (both national and local) as well as with community organizations and associations to ensure the furtherance of the Filipinos’ protection and development. Ambassador Reyes has met with members of the Filipino community in Rome, in Milan and in Florence. He is likewise scheduled to attend important community activities in Naples and Reggio Calabria. (Philippine Embassy – Rome)
