Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday conferred the Order of Sikatuna on outgoing Hungarian Ambassador to the Philippines Titanilla T³th, in recognition of her efforts in fostering stronger ties between the Philippines and Hungary. T³th received the award during her farewell call on Marcos at Malaca±an Palace in Manila. Marcos thanked the ambassador for her service and contributions to strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries. "It's always a little bit sad to see you go. But thank you for everything that you have done. I'm glad that you are here. I think you can look back to your time in the Philippines," he said. "And I know that you have made many, many friends over us. You have many, many reasons to come visit us again," Marcos added.
According to Philippines News Agency, Hungary and the Philippines established diplomatic relations in 1973. Hungary has been a consistent supporter of the early conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Philippines, recognizing its importance in further promoting trade, investment, and economic cooperation between the two sides.
Meanwhile, Marcos also met with outgoing Dutch Ambassador to the Philippines Marielle Geraedts during a separate farewell call at Malaca±an. Marcos expressed hope that Geraedts would remember her time in the Philippines fondly, noting that her tenure was marked not only by memorable experiences but also by significant progress in bilateral relations. "I'm glad that you will remember the Philippines that way. But not only it was fun, but there was a great deal of progress in our relations," he said. "It's always been important to us to have our continued partnership in the discussions that we have had. We appreciate your support for our progression and your support for the progress that we have made," Marcos added.
Marcos expressed gratitude to the outgoing Dutch ambassador for her support in advancing Philippine development initiatives. He also reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to sustaining and deepening its partnership with both Hungary and the Netherlands.
