Reception Hall, Malacañan Palace
February 26, 2025

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. warmly welcomed His Excellency Mounir Y.K. Anastas, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to the Philippines, as he presented his credentials in a ceremony at the Reception Hall in Malacañan Palace.

In his brief remarks, Ambassador Anastas conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to the Philippines and expressed his commitment to strengthening the bonds between the two nations, underscoring the shared values of resilience, justice and human dignity that unite the Filipino and Palestinian peoples.

“We can work towards a future where peace, mutual understanding and prosperity prevail. Let us continue to stand united in the pursuit of justice and equality not only for our nations, but for all humanity. May peace and solidarity guide our path forward,” he said.

For his part, President Marcos Jr. assured the Palestinian Ambassador of the Philippines’ commitment to peace and prosperity, emphasizing the importance of international order and human rights for all, as well as expressing his support for the Palestinian’s right to establish their own State.

Prior to his diplomatic posting in the Philippines, Ambassador Anastas served as the Permanent Representative of the State of Palestine to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

The Philippines is among the over 100 states that recognize the State of Palestine. Diplomatic relations were established in September 1989, leading to the opening of the Embassy of the State of Palestine in Manila in May 1990.

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