MANILA— Six Filipino diplomats were conferred three of the country’s highest honors during the 120th Foundation Anniversary of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) led by President Rodrigo R. Duterte on Monday.
The Order of Lakandula with the rank of Gold Cross was awarded to DFA Undersecretary for Policy Enrique Manalo, recognized for his “steadfast leadership,” during his stint as the Acting Secretary of DFA from March to May 2017.
Manalo was cited for propelling the articulation of the country’s independent foreign policy subject to the strategic priorities set by the current administration.
The Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Gold Cross was conferred to DFA Assistant Secretary Hellen de la Vega for her role in the success of the 2017 Philippine chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
Meanwhile, four diplomats became recipients of the Gawad Mabini, an award given to distinguished Filipinos who helped promote the country’s interest abroad.
The award is composed of three ranks: the Grand Cross or Dakilang Kamanong, given to ambassadors or other high officials who head a Philippine delegation in an international conference; the Commander or Dakilang Kasugo for officers with a rank between career minister to Foreign Service Officer class IV; and Member or Kasugo for DFA personnel and staff.
Dakilang Kamanong was awarded to Consul General to Dubai Paul Raymond Cortes; Dakilang Kasugo to Vice Consul Luningning Camoying and Special Assistant Robespierre Bolivar; and the Kasugo to Eduardo Paraan, who served as former Acting Director of the Intelligence Service Unit.
Bolivar, the Gawad Mabini with the rank of Commander awardee, served as the previous DFA spokesperson before Assistant Secretary Elmer Cato took over the position.
Bolivar was awarded the honor for his stint as the Special Assistant Secretary to the Undersecretary for Policy, where he drafted the DFA’s National Security Strategic Plan 2017-2022. (PNA)
