BURUNDI – PHILIPPINES: Ambassador Télésphore Irambona presents Letters of Credence to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr

On October 27, 2026, a new milestone was reached in strengthening diplomatic relations between the Republic of Burundi and the Republic of the Philippines. At Malacañan Palace in Manila, His Excellency Télésphore Irambona, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Burundi to the People’s Republic of China (based in Beijing) and designated non-resident Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines, presented his letters of credence to His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., President of the Republic of the Philippines.

This formal ceremony took place following the presentation of the true copies of his letters of credence to Her Excellency Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, in accordance with established diplomatic protocol.

The presentation of the Letters of Credence marks the official beginning of the Burundian Ambassador’s diplomatic mission to the Philippine authorities. It also reflects their shared commitment to further consolidate the bonds of friendship and cooperation that have existed since the establishment of their diplomatic relations in 2017.

During the ceremony, which was characterized by cordiality and mutual respect, the Philippine authorities welcomed this new accreditation, which opens promising avenues for deepening bilateral relations and exploring new areas of partnership for the benefit of both peoples.

A seasoned diplomat, Ambassador Télésphore Irambona has served as the ambassador of the Republic of Burundi to the People’s Republic of China since 2023. He is also accredited to several other countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, among others. His proven experience in diplomacy and public administration serves as a significant asset for the development of relations between Bujumbura and Manila.

Beyond its formal, protocol-related significance, this accreditation reflects a shared ambition to bring the Burundian and Filipino peoples closer together by strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as trade, investment, agriculture, education, training, innovation, and cultural exchange.

The arrival of Ambassador Télésphore Irambona in his new role to the Republic of the Philippines initiates a fresh dynamic of dialogue and cooperation between the two nations, rooted in the values ​​of mutual respect, solidarity, and a win-win partnership.

Through this diplomatic initiative, Burundi reaffirms its commitment to diversifying its international partnerships and bolstering its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, in line with a foreign policy focused on promoting trade, development cooperation, and closer ties between peoples.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministère des Affaires Etrangères du Burundi.