In a gesture of diplomacy and cultural exchange, European Union Ambassador Mariomassimo Santoro paid a courtesy visit to the Manila Bulletin headquarters on Sept. 18, 2025. He was warmly welcomed by Basilio C. Yap, chairman of the Yap Group of Companies, and Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, president of Manila Bulletin and vice chairman of the Yap Group. Joining them was Manila Bulletin’s executive editor, Pinky Colmenares, whose presence highlighted the editorial leadership behind one of the country’s most respected news organizations.

Ambassador Santoro was accompanied by Thelma Gecolea, public affairs officer of the EU Embassy, underscoring the importance of media relations and public engagement in the EU’s diplomatic mission.

The visit began with light conversation, as Chairman Yap asked the Ambassador about his impressions of Manila. The discussion quickly turned to food—specifically spaghetti etiquette—with both parties sharing a laugh over the European tradition of twirling pasta rather than cutting it.

Ambassador Santoro, who has been stationed in the Philippines for a year since presenting his credentials to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., reflected on the cultural similarities between Filipinos and Europeans. “We both have the tradition of opening our homes,” he noted, emphasizing shared values of trust and hospitality.

The conversation also touched on the role of media in society. Ambassador Santoro praised Manila Bulletin’s commitment to fact-checking and responsible journalism, especially in the age of artificial intelligence and rampant misinformation. Both parties acknowledged the dangers posed by fake news and the importance of editorial integrity. They also discussed the challenges faced by journalists, including the tragic cases of assassinated media workers and the rise of pseudo-journalism.

During his visit, Ambassador Santoro met with the editorial team and toured the Manila Bulletin premises. He expressed admiration for the organization’s creative use of space and its commitment to sustainability, particularly in recycling materials as part of its decor and operations. The Ambassador noted that such practices reflect a forward-thinking mindset and environmental responsibility.

As the topic shifted to current political issues, Chairman Yap remarked, “You know better,” to which the Ambassador diplomatically responded that EU member states do not intervene in the internal affairs of other nations. They also discussed the rally that was then to take place on September 21, coinciding with the anniversary of Martial Law in the Philippines. Both expressed hope that the event would remain peaceful and serve as a platform for citizens to voice their concerns about corruption and advocate for good governance.

Ambassador Santoro shared his admiration for Baybayin, the ancient Filipino script, calling it “nostalgic.” A polyglot, he speaks Italian, English, Spanish, German, and Tagalog—though he admitted he has yet to try Chinese. He noted that while many Filipinos are familiar with the United States and China, the European Union is working to raise awareness about its member states and their contributions. “It’s important to reach more people and show who we are,” he said, mentioning that there are currently 16 EU member state ambassadors in the Philippines.

The meeting concluded with a brief discussion on the green economy, signaling shared interests in sustainability and environmental cooperation between the EU and the Philippines.

Ambassador Santoro’s visit underscored the value of dialogue, cultural exchange, and mutual respect—hallmarks of a strong and evolving partnership between Europe and the Philippines.