Always interesting and productive work with the officers, the men and women of the Department of Foreign Affairs!
As with previous budget briefings I’ve had with the DFA, the discussion was thorough and constructive, with a focus on ensuring our foreign service continues to serve Filipinos with efficiency and integrity.
We delved into plans to establish new foreign service posts abroad, and in the country, ensuring that Filipinos—whether at home or overseas—receive timely and reliable services. We also addressed critical issues, including the strengthening of security measures in consular processes, particularly to combat the use of fraudulent birth certificates in acquiring Philippine passports.
A key highlight was our shared commitment to expanding the Philippines’ presence on the global stage. We explored ways to promote our rich arts, culture, and history by expanding Philippine Studies programs in foreign institutions and revitalizing Sentro Rizal centers worldwide to promote our national hero’s legacy.
Our discussions further extended to maritime and climate issues, as well as the actions we take on addressing them. The Loss and Damage Fund Board Act was recently enacted, a law I principally authored and co-sponsored. With the Philippines hosting the Board of the Loss and Damage Fund, we have positioned ourselves among the world’s climate finance capitals, alongside Germany (host of the Adaptation Fund Board) and the Republic of Korea (host of the Green Climate Fund Board).
We also laid Philippines’ activities leading to the 2025 UN Oceans Conference in Nice, France, reaffirming our stronger commitment to safeguarding our oceans and marine ecosystems.
The hearing left me inspired and hopeful, knowing that by focusing on these initiatives, we are enhancing our foreign service’s capacity and further elevating our nation’s international standing.
