PRESIDENT Aquino on Thursday conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the Rank of Datu (Grand Cross) Gold Distinction to former Singapore Foreign Minister George Yeo, in recognition of his meritorious and exceptional work to foster better relations between Singapore and the Philippines.

The conferment ceremonies, held at the Music Room of Malacañan Palace, was witnessed by Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Transportation Secretary Manuel Roxas II, Singapore Ambassador to the Philippines Ampalavanar Selverajah and the honoree’s wife, Jennifer Yeo.

After the awarding rites, Mr. Aquino feted Yeo and his group to a luncheon reception at the palace’s Aguinaldo State Dining Room.

The Order of Sikatuna was established in 1953 and is conferred by the President of the Philippines to individuals who have rendered exceptional and meritorious services to the Philippines.

In photo: President Benigno Aquino confers the Order of Sikatuna on former Singapore Foreign Minister George Yeo at the Music Room of Malacañang on Wednesday. The Order of Sikatuna is the national order of diplomatic merit of the Philippines. It is conferred on those who have rendered exceptional and meritorious services to the country  and on  diplomats, officials and nationals of  other countries  who have helped foster, develop and strengthen relations between their country and the Philippines. Witnessing the ceremony is Yeo’s wife Jennifer. (Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau).