Ambassador Denis Yap Lepatan attended the formal inauguration of the Philippine Consulate, ad honorem, with jurisdiction over the Canton of Ticino in Switzerland on 18 November 2018.

Ambassador Denis Yap Lepatan (left) and Consul Anna Margherita Maffeis-Natale pose for a souvenir photo after the formal inauguration of the Consulate, ad honorem.

During the inauguration, the Ambassador congratulated Ms. Anna Margherita Maffeis-Natale on her appointment as Consul, a.h. In his remarks, Amb. Lepatan also noted the numerous socio-civic activities and programs focusing on nutrition and health, and education that Ms. Maffeis, through her MaffeisNetwork SA, have been extending to disadvantaged children in various localities in the Philippines.

The Ambassador also noted the excellent relations between the Philippines and Switzerland and expressed the hope that the opening of the Philippine Consulate in Ticino could contribute to further enhancing the bilateral relations. He also expressed confidence that the Filipino community in Ticino would partner with the Consulate in its future initiatives, which would include cultural programs.

  Ambassador Denis Yap Lepatan and Madame Maria Teresa Lepatan (5^th and 6^th from left) and Consul Anna Margherita Maffeis-Natale and spouse, Mr. Peitro Maffeis,

(6^th and 7^th from left), pose for a souvenir photo with the Officers of the Philippine Embassy after the formal inauguration of the Consulate, ad honorem.

  Ambassador Denis Yap Lepatan and Madame Maria Teresa Lepatan (2^nd and 1^st from right) and Consul Anna Margherita Maffeis-Natale and Mr. Peitro Maffeis, (2^nd and 1^st from left),

toast to the formal inauguration of the Philippine Consulate, a.h., and to Consul Maffeis, a.h.

Ms. Maffeis took her Oath of Office as Consul, a.h., before Amb. Lepatan on 12 September 2018 at the Philippine Embassy in Berne. END