BANGKOK, 23 NOVEMBER 2023 - Philippine Ambassador to Thailand H.E. Millicent Cruz Paredes made official visits to Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces (SBPs) namely Songkhla, Satun, Yala, Narathiwat and Pattani and paid courtesy calls on the respective Governors and Provincial Officials on 16-17 November 2023.

Ambassador Paredes met with Governor Somnuek Phromkiaw of Songkhla Province, Governor Sakkara Kapinkan of Satun Province, Vice Governor Anan Boonsamran of Yala Province, Deputy Governor Sangkhom Keudkor of Narathiwat Province and Governor Patimau Sadiyamu of Pattani Province, on separate occasions, to discuss the needs and concerns of Filipinos in each province and strengthen the Embassy’s coordination with the Office of the Governor and local government officials, especially in instances where Filipinos may fall in distress or need special assistance. The Ambassador also informed the officials that a consular outreach mission was scheduled in Pattani on 18 November 2023.

The Thai officials were consistent in acknowledging the significant social and economic contribution of the Philippine expatriates working in the Southern Border Provinces, most of whom are employed as English teachers in both public and private schools at various levels. They said that the genuine concern, kindness, and creativity of the Filipino teachers, and their willingness to impart their knowledge to contribute to the education and upskilling of the Thai people, are greatly appreciated in their communities. The officials also readily gave assurances of their continued support and assistance for all Filipinos in their respective provinces in their time of need.

The peace and security situation in the Southern Border Provinces was also at the center of the discussions. The Ambassador expressed that the Philippines and Thailand share the common desire to promote lasting peace and development in the southern parts of their respective countries, and the lessons learned by the Philippine’s success in the Mindanao peace process may be of relevance to Thailand as it continues to pursue its own peace efforts. END

Ambassador Paredes with Governor Sakkara Kapinkan of Satun Province, Thailand

Ambassador Paredes with Vice Governor Anan Boonsamran of Yala Province, Thailand

Ambassador Paredes with Deputy Governor Sangkhom Keudkor of Narathiwat Province, Thailand

Ambassador Paredes with Governor Patimau Sadiyamu of Pattani Province, Thailand