Economic Diplomacy

who have stayed a long time in their post acquire a deep knowledge of the mores and culture of the people, which make them useful assets for the home government. Moreover they receive the trust and confidence of the host country, allowing them the opportunity to advance the interest of both home and host countries. They are, therefore, on occasion called to assist and advice in diplomatic negotiations.

Economic Diplomacy

During the term of Raul Manglapus at the Department of Foreign Affairs, he launched what was termed economic diplomacy. This was continued by his successors like Roberto Romulo, who was able to entice top chief executives of large corporations to join the department. Accordingly a few of us from the business sector were recruited, among these the likes of Al Yuchengco, Jesus Tambunting, John Rocha and Howard Dee.

Economic diplomacy, facilitated by the increase in foreign travel, is the growth of trade between nations. For most countries, the national economy is part of the global economy. This means increased opportunities to sell and trade with other nations. When two nations are conducting a trade, it is usually advantageous to both parties to have an ambassador and perhaps a small staff living in the other land, where they act as an intermediary between cooperative businesses.

Ambassador Jose V. Romero Jr. to the Republic of Italy (1989-1992)

Ambassador Jose V. Romero Jr. beside photo of his father, Jose E. Romero, Sr., Ambassador to the Court of St. James

On the way to the Quirinal Palace for the presentation of credentials to the Italian President.

The Ambassador with some clergymen.

Independence Day Celebration in Rome with ambassador to the Vatican Ambassador Oscar Villadolid at the Collegio Filippino.

Speaking during Independence Day celebration

Philippine Chairs and FAO Organization

The Distinguished Service Award

The award was created pursuant to Executive Order No. 398 dated April 1990 of President Corazon C. Aquino enjoining all departments, agencies and offices of the national government to establish their respective rewards programs.

The silver-plated brass medal consists of a five-pointed star, the center of which is a disc where the seal of the Republic of the Philippines is placed. The words “Loyalty and Service” are engraved around the disc.

The wreath above the star consists of dark green leaves and white Sampaguita buds—the Philippines’ national flower. The tie at the base serves as a divider of the tendril and a link to the star through a metal ring.

The ring around the seal signifies meritorious, loyal and valuable service to the Republic; the star represents outstanding achievements; and the wreath signifies the honor for having been appointed as Chief of Mission and for services rendered abroad as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Consul General. At the opposite side of the medal are the words “For Distinguished Service.”

The ribbon has a purple background with the silver stripe at the center.

With Ambassador Oscar Villadolid who was envoy to the Vatican.