The newly appointed Non-Resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Maldives to the Philippines, Dr Mariyam Shabeena Ahmed, presented her Letters of Credence to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace yesterday. The ceremony marked the formal start of her mandate to represent Malé in Manila on a non-resident basis.
During the audience, Ambassador Shabeena conveyed greetings from President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and pledged her commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation. President Marcos Jr. congratulated her on the appointment and assured the support of the Philippine Government in carrying out her responsibilities. She was accompanied by Hussain Jahhaz, Counsellor at the High Commission of Maldives in Malaysia.
Although trade between the two countries remains limited, people-to-people links are significant. The Maldives relies heavily on expatriate labour, particularly in tourism, construction, education, and healthcare, with Filipinos forming part of this workforce. Many work in Greater Malé and across resort islands, mainly in hospitality and skilled technical roles. This has made labour and workforce cooperation a key aspect of bilateral ties.
As Ambassador Shabeena begins her tenure, areas of focus are likely to include strengthening cooperation on skills and training, and exploring opportunities in business and investment related to tourism and services.
