The Philippines has extended heartfelt thanks to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its unwavering support to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), Muslim pilgrims, and humanitarian initiatives—expressed during the Kingdom’s 95th National Day celebration on Tuesday.
Speaking on behalf of Foreign Affairs Secretary Teresa Lazaro, DFA Undersecretary Maria Theresa de Vega praised Saudi Arabia for hosting over 700,000 Filipinos who now call the Kingdom home. She described them as a “living bridge of friendship and cooperation” between the two nations.
Honoring Pilgrims and Faith
De Vega also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s continued support for Filipino Muslims performing their sacred journey. This year alone, about 5,000 Filipino pilgrims were able to take part in the Hajj.
“We likewise thank the Kingdom for continuously hosting thousands of our Muslim brothers and sisters who perform the Umrah and the yearly Hajj in Saudi Arabia,” she said, her words resonating with gratitude.
A Lifeline of Hope: Humanitarian Work
The undersecretary gave special recognition to the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program, which has already changed Filipino lives forever. Just last year, the program successfully separated Filipino twins Akhizah and Ayeesha.
Another set of twins, Klea Ann and Maurice Ann Misa from Occidental Mindoro, are scheduled for surgery in the Kingdom—making them the third Filipino conjoined twins to receive this life-changing help.
“These efforts have given hope not only to families in the Philippines but also to many others around the world,” de Vega said with emotion.
Looking Ahead Together
She added that the Philippines is eager to deepen cooperation with Saudi Arabia, aligning with both Ambisyon Natin 2040 and Saudi Vision 2030—development plans that aim to uplift lives and build stronger futures.
The message of unity and hope was delivered during a reception at Makati Shangri-La, hosted by Saudi Ambassador Faisal Ebraheem Alghamdi.
Before Philippine officials, diplomats, and business leaders, the ambassador proudly recalled the ties between the two nations, forged in 1969. He described the relationship as a “distinguished model of genuine partnership founded on mutual respect and shared interests.”
He also honored the more than one million Filipinos who contribute daily to Saudi Arabia’s growth, while ensuring thousands of pilgrims can perform their religious rites with ease and dignity.
