President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. formally received the credentials of newly appointed ambassadors from the Slovak Republic, Papua New Guinea, and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic during a ceremony at Malacañan Palace on Friday.
The President expressed a high degree of optimism regarding the expansion of bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas of economic investment, nuclear technology, and regional stability.
In a historic development, the President welcomed H.E. Miloš Koterec as the Slovak Republic’s first resident ambassador to the Philippines. President Marcos emphasized that the establishment of a resident mission marks a new chapter for the two nations.
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Key Areas of Cooperation: The President and Ambassador Koterec identified nuclear technology, education, and academic partnerships as primary sectors for knowledge exchange.
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Economic Integration: Ambassador Koterec pledged to advance tangible business partnerships and investments.
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People-to-People Ties: The President acknowledged the 1,500 Filipinos contributing to the Slovak economy and welcomed Slovakia’s intent to accede to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in Southeast Asia.
President Marcos also held productive exchanges with H.E. Stephen Pokanis of Papua New Guinea and H.E. Thiphasone Sengsourinha of the Lao PDR, focusing on regional solidarity and long-standing diplomatic history.
Papua New Guinea (PNG):
Celebrating 50 years of bilateral relations, Ambassador Pokanis highlighted PNG’s support for the Philippines in promoting regional peace. The discussion underscored robust cooperation in:
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Trade and food investments.
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Healthcare and education services.
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Strengthened movement of people between the two nations.
Lao PDR:
The President noted that the relationship with Lao PDR is fortified by both bilateral agreements and the shared ASEAN partnership. Ambassador Sengsourinha pledged full commitment to advancing these ties, with the President anticipating “significant progress” in diplomatic and domestic contacts during the envoy’s tenure.
Summary of Diplomatic Priorities
| Country | Focus Areas | Notable Highlights |
| Slovak Republic | Nuclear Tech, Education, Investment | First-ever Resident Ambassador to the PH |
| Papua New Guinea | Food Security, Regional Stability | 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations |
| Lao PDR | ASEAN Partnership, Bilateral Trade | Commitment to “Significant Progress” |
“There is much for our nations to do and develop. I look forward to the relationship growing and deepening through economic and people-to-people ties,” said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The ceremony concluded with the President reiterating the Philippines’ “open-door” policy for diplomatic dialogue and economic collaboration, signaling a proactive approach to global partnerships in the coming years.
