Ambassador Manuel M. Lopez receives Order of Sikatuna (Photo excerpted from RTVM - www.rtvm.gov.ph)President Benigno S. Aquino III on January 11 conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Grand Cross to Philippine Ambassador to Japan Manuel M. Lopez and Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain Carlos Salinas.

Ambassador Lopez received the award with the following citations: for his exemplary efforts which contributed significantly to the historic elevation of Philippines—Japan relations to that of a strategic partnership; for his commitment to working closely with Japan in advocating maritime security in accordance with international law; for overseeing and coordinating with utmost dedication and efficiency high-level visits between the Philippine and Japan, including the State Visit of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in the Philippines and vise versa; for his indefatigable efforts in evacuating and ensuring the safety of Filipinos in the aftermath of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake; and, for his exemplary accomplishment in working for the further advancement and strengthening of the country’s national interests in it relations with Japan.

The Order of Sikatuna is the national order of diplomatic merit of the Republic of the Philippines. and is conferred upon individuals who have rendered exceptional and meritorious services to the country, upon diplomats, officials and nationals of foreign states who have rendered conspicuous services in fostering, developing and strengthening relations between their country and the Philippines, or upon personnel of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, both in the Home Office and in the Foreign Service.

The families of the Ambassadors were present at the awarding ceremony.

Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain Carlos Salinas receives Order of Sikatuna (Photo excerpted from RTVM - www.rtvm.gov.ph)

Philippine Ambassador to Japan Manuel M. Lopez and Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain Carlos Salinas receives Order of Sikatuna (Photo excerpted from RTVM - www.rtvm.gov.ph)