PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently conferred the Order of Sikatuna on Turkish envoy Artemiz Sümer at the Malacañang Palace.
“During her farewell call…we conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross) Silver Distinction on H.E. Artemiz Sümer, the outgoing Turkish Ambassador to the Philippines,” Marcos said in a Facebook post.
The diplomatic order is awarded by a Philippine president to individuals for “conspicuous service in fostering, developing and strengthening relations between their country and the Philippines.”
The chief executive also appreciated the diplomat for bolstering her country’s bonds with the Philippines during her watch.
“We are grateful for Ambassador Sümer’s efforts [that strengthened our nations’ ties],” the president said. “We also wish her well as she completes her tour of duty…”
Radio Television Malacañang, on its Facebook page, shared a short video of the event and noted Turkey’s support of the Bangsamoro Region’s peace process.
Sümer was appointed envoy of Turkey to the Philippines in 2019. Prior to her designation, she served as ambassador of the transcontinental country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ruth
Image credits: Facebook: Bongbong Marcos/PNA