Dear DFA Colleague,

     I write to express my humble thanks for all your valued contributions to the Department of Foreign Affairs and to the Philippine Foreign Service.

     Whether in terms of the three (3) Pillars of Philippine Foreign Policy - the preservation and enhancement of national security, the promotion of economic security and the protection of the rights and promotion of the welfare of overseas Filipinos - or by way of institutional strengthening and capacity building, our collective resolve as public servants and advocates has never wavered.

     Since February 2011, we have seen how our commitment and dedication as an institution has enabled us to make significant achievements in the service of our country and our people.

     With your support, the DFA has consistently ranked as one of the top government agencies in terms of efficiency and effectiveness, in surveys conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) and the Makati Business Club (MBC). In the SWS' December 2015 survey results on the Aquino administration's performance, four (4) out of 14 issues received the highest grade of "GOOD." These are: "Foreign relations;" "Promoting the welfare of OFWs;" "Protecting the country's territorial rights;" and "Helping the poor." The DFA was directly responsible for delivering the top three (3) issues. On "Helping the poor", DFA's efforts have also directly and indirectly contributed by increasing to record levels the Official Development Assistance or ODAs to the Philippines.

     More importantly, under President Aquino's leadership and guidance, we have succeeded in helping define our foreign policy as principled, independent and based on the rule of law. And all your contributions have made such a meaningful and positive difference.

    As your Secretary of Foreign Affairs, please allow me to say that it has been an incredible journey with you: 151 Official Missions in almost 50 countries for the purpose of negotiating and asserting the rightful place of the Philippines in the international community.

     It has been a real honor and privilege to have worked with you, and with all the outstanding men and women of the "Department that never sleeps."

     Once again, please accept my most profound appreciation for all your hard work, sacrifice and service and above all, for reaching beyond your grasp.

     With my very best wishes for the Department's continued strategic role in the next administration, and for you and your family's good health and success, I remain

Sincerely yours,

ALBERT F. DEL ROSARIO
Secretary of Foreign Affairs