BANGKOK, 21 MARCH 2022 – Philippine Ambassador to Thailand H.E. Millicent Cruz Paredes paid an introductory call on Mr. Vijvut Tjinto, Governor of the Province of Surat Thani, on 18 March 2022 to reaffirm the commitment of the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok to work closely with the Provincial Government of Surat Thani in ensuring the welfare of Filipinos in the province. Ambassador Paredes also received the assurances of Governor Vijvut for the continued support of the Surat Thani Provincial Government for Filipinos including those who may have visa and immigration concerns.

Ambassador Paredes further thanked Governor Vijvut and the people of Surat Thani for their hospitality and care for the estimated 350 Filipino nationals living in the province, most of whom work in the education and hospitality sectors. The Ambassador also expressed appreciation to the Provincial Government for providing Filipinos access to the COVID-19 vaccination and other forms of assistance including the grant of the COVID-19 visa which does not require foreigners to exit the Kingdom.

As part of the Ambassador’s series of introductory calls on Provincial Governors of Thailand, the meeting also discussed the major infrastructure projects in Surat Thani including the construction of a new international airport terminal to accommodate five million arriving passengers per year. Surat Thani province includes the world-famous island destinations of Koh Samui, Koh Pah-ngan, and Koh Tao.

Ambassador Paredes assured Governor Vijvut of the contribution of the Filipino community in Surat Thani to the continued progress of the province.

The courtesy call was held back-to-back with the Philippine Embassy’s consular outreach mission for the Filipino community in Surat Thani Province and surrounding areas on 19 March 2022. END