The Philippine Embassy held its first flag raising ceremony at the newly-renovated chancery at Laan Copes van Cattenburch 125 early morning Monday, 16 May. 

Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya, who led the ceremony at the Kalayaan Hall, expressed elation that the Embassy’s historic Chancery has finally been fully renovated, its first since the Philippines acquired the property in 1968. The building was originally constructed in 1871. During the renovation work, the Embassy held temporary offices at the Statesman building in Churchillplein for 10 months.

“It is good to be back at our own house. With better facilities, we can do our work and serve our constituents more efficiently,” Ambassador Malaya said. 

The flag-ceremony was followed by the Embassy’s Monday morning regular meeting where the Ambassador, the officers and section heads discuss upcoming activities and projects, particularly preparations for the commemoration of the 124th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence in June.

The Embassy also received its first consular client, Ms. Marinette A. Alburo, who applied for the renewal of her passport, at the renovated consular section.