Marcos Accepts Credentials of New Swiss and Dutch Ambassadors
- 24, 2026, that diplomatic relations between the Philippines and both Switzerland and the Netherlands will deepen under their newly designated ambassadors.
- During the presentation of credentials, Marcos described Philippine-Switzerland relations as warm and close, noting that the partnership is anchored on shared values.
- In his meeting with Ambassador Wols, Marcos and the Dutch envoy affirmed the strength of bilateral ties anchored on a common maritime heritage and shared democratic values, human...
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed optimism on Sept. 24, 2026, that diplomatic relations between the Philippines and both Switzerland and the Netherlands will deepen under their newly designated ambassadors. Marcos received the credentials of Swiss Ambassador Edgard Cristoph Doerig and Dutch Ambassador Roderick Wols in separate ceremonies held at Malacañan Palace in Manila.
Strengthening Ties With Switzerland Ahead of 2027 Anniversary
During the presentation of credentials, Marcos described Philippine-Switzerland relations as warm and close, noting that the partnership is anchored on shared values. Marcos told Ambassador Doerig that he is confident the envoy’s tenure will bring the two countries even closer together. Doerig acknowledged the long-standing political and economic ties uniting both nations, alongside their deep historical connections. The Swiss ambassador highlighted national hero Jose Rizal’s stay in Switzerland, where Rizal translated Friedrich Schiller’s work “William Tell” into Tagalog to help introduce concepts of freedom, civic responsibility, and self-determination to Filipinos. Doerig noted that the upcoming celebration of 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2027 will provide a vital opportunity to further expand bilateral cooperation.
Expanding Economic and Maritime Partnership With the Netherlands
In his meeting with Ambassador Wols, Marcos and the Dutch envoy affirmed the strength of bilateral ties anchored on a common maritime heritage and shared democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law. Marcos pointed to a strong economic partnership and identified several sectors with strong potential for expanded cooperation, including trade and investment, water management, transportation, and infrastructure. Wols emphasized the strong foundation built over 75 years of Philippine-Netherlands relations. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the international legal order, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights and freedoms. Both officials also acknowledged significant people-to-people ties, citing the societal and economic contributions of Filipinos living in the Netherlands, including those employed aboard Dutch-flagged vessels. Wols is a career diplomat whose prior diplomatic postings include China, Brazil, Japan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Angola.
