The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) – Mindanao successfully hosted its Year-End Reception on 12 December 2024 at the Dusit D2 Hotel in Davao City. The event brought together over 100 dignitaries, including senior diplomats of foreign consulates based in Davao City, Philippine government officials, business executives, and representatives from civil society, and the media.
In a video message, Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo highlighted DFA Mindanao’s significant strides in 2024. He emphasized its expanded mandate within the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia- Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-Eaga) and its strengthened collaboration with Mindanao stakeholders, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (Barmm).
Sec. Manalo commended the leadership of Assistant Secretary Maria Agnes Cervantes, who assumed office in October 2024, and lauded the significant progress in regional connectivity, trade, and cultural exchange achieved through the BIMP-Eaga initiative.
Cervantes delivered the keynote address reflecting on DFA Mindanao’s achievements over the year. She acknowledged the critical role of the Consular Corps, international organizations, and government partners, remarking, “Your collaborative efforts have empowered DFA Mindanao to serve as a bridge — connecting our collective aspirations to the global stage and ensuring that the region’s voice is heard and valued.”
The evening program featured the Harmonia Polifonica Chorale from the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) performing heartwarming renditions of beloved Filipino Christmas songs. PRA
