Dili, 24 July 2020 - The Philippine Embassy in Dili was conferred a special citation for its repatriation efforts and other measures it had undertaken to help Overseas Filipinos in distress in light of the COVID-19 pandemic during the commemoration of the 122nd Founding Anniversary of the Department of Foreign Affairs on 23rd of July 2020.
During the Virtual DFA Day celebration awarding ceremonies, the Civilian Security and Consular Concerns (OCSCC) Undersecretary Brigido J. Dulay cited, that the above –mentioned award is being given/confer to seventy (70) Foreign Service Posts and its personnel, who in the face of uncertainty and great risk to their personal wellbeing, in the light of the covid-19 pandemic, courageously attended and assisted in the repatriation of thousands of Filipinos worldwide, and Dili PE is one of the recipient of this award in recognition of going beyond the call of duty to attend to Filipinos in distress in Timor-Leste, and who have been affected by COVID-19 pandemic.
It may be recalled that Dili PE mounted one Pan Pacific Airlines chartered to bring home 35 Overseas Filipinos, who were economically displaced and were stranded in Timor-Leste due to covd-19 crisis. These repatriates were able to returned back home to the Philippines without any cost on their part because all expenses were borne by the Philippine Government.
H.E. Abdulmaid K. Muin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste expressed his appreciation and thanks for the said recognition, and to everyone who rendered its valuable services and support in the repatriation activity. He also stated that “The repatriation activity is a part of the Philippine government’s program, in line with the country’s foreign policy thrust of promoting and protecting the welfare of Filipinos Overseas. END
