The Philippines is grateful for Israel's assistance, including the donation of coronavirus test kits and other medical supplies, to increase the country's arsenal to fight the coronavirus pandemic.
President Duterte has extended the country's gratitude to Israel while citing the vital contributions of outgoing Israeli Ambassador Rafael Harpaz in enhancing the relations between the two countries during his recent farewell call in Malacañang.
The Order of Sikatuna with the Rank of Datu was conferred on the Israeli envoy at the Palace Wednesday, June 16.
"The President likewise thanked Israel for its donation of medical supplies, testing kits, and educational equipment to help in the country’s fight against COVID-19 and for the inclusion of Filipinos in Israel’s free vaccination program," a Palace statement read.
According to Harpaz, a team of experts will visit the Philippines to share best practices in fighting the pandemic.
Israel is among the countries that swiftly vaccinated majority of the population and started to ease movement curbs, including indoor mask order, as cases of infections started to decrease.
"Israel will continue to partner with the Philippines in various areas, including in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic by, for instance, sending a medical team to share lessons and best practices, the Ambassador said," the Palace said.
"The Ambassador also commended the Philippines’ response against COVID-19, saying he is confident the country will overcome the challenges brought about by the pandemic," it added.
The President meantime praised Harpaz for his "tireless work" in advancing cooperation in the areas of defense, business and innovation, agriculture, and labor.
The ambassador was also praised for helping ensure the humane and orderly treatment of Filipinos with immigration cases in Israel. Duterte also cited the envoy for his role in the implementation of bilateral agreements on the temporary employment of Filipino home- based caregivers and workers in the hotel sector.
Harpaz also highlighted Duterte's leadership as well as efforts that fostered "excellent" ties between the two countries, according to the Palace.
President Duterte made an official four-day visit to Israel in August 2018 to broaden bilateral relations. He was the first Philippine leader to make such trip.
"Ambassador Harpaz conveyed appreciation for the Philippines’ contribution to the socio-economic development of Israel, especially the health professionals and caregivers who have assisted Israel in its most vulnerable state during the pandemic," the Palace said.
"He likewise lauded the Philippines for opening its doors to European Jews during the Holocaust, stressing that this humanitarian tradition should be recognized globally.
Ambassador Harpaz thanked the President for the recognition and conferment of the Order of Sikatuna," it added.
READ: Duterte 'disagreed' with PH vote on Gaza probe, says Roque
Prior to meeting with the Israeli envoy, the President raised concern about the "ruckus" arising from the country's vote backing a United Nations-led inquiry into the alleged rights violations during the latest Gaza violence. Duterte claimed that the country's vote at the UN Human Rights Council was made "without consulting the home government."
The Palace explained that the President disagreed with the vote but admitted it could no longer be withdrawn. Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said concerned senior government officials have been reminded to consult the President prior to voting on crucial issues in the multilateral fora.