PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

20 May 2026, Port Vila, Vanuatu – Ambassador Morales held his inaugural engagement with the Filipino community in Port Vila on 18 May 2026 at the Melanesian Hotel. During the gathering, he expressed gratitude for the essential support provided by Philippine Honorary Consul General Florentino Serrano and his staff, highlighting the Department of Foreign Affairs' dedication to engaging with Filipinos overseas. The Ambassador praised the community members as the Philippines' "best ambassadors," noting their significant contributions to Vanuatu's economy and cultural fabric through the promotion of Filipino heritage.

As 2026 marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Vanuatu, the Ambassador underscored the Embassy's and the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Port Vila's continued pledge to safeguard the welfare of the local Filipino population. To convey the spirit of solidarity, he also related it to a message from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who lauded the industry, skill, and character of the Filipino people.

Afterwards, Ambassador Morales was interviewed by Ms. Kizzy Kalsakau, a well-known radio personality and newsreader at 96 Buzz FM in Vanuatu. The interview was broadcast through 96 Buzz FM’s Nightly News.

As of December 2025, there are 606 Filipinos in Vanuatu - END