MANILA, Philippines – A Philippine diplomat recently received a prestigious award from the Italian government for his many contributions to the welfare of Filipino overseas workers and in promoting goodwill between the 2 countries.

Ambassador Philippine Lhuillier became the first Philippine Ambassador to Italy to receive the Ordine della Stella della Solidarieta Italiana (Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity) with the rank of Grand Officer.

"I share this award with the Filipino community in Italy whom I have the highest respects. Without their cooperation in strengthening Philippine-Italian relations, I would not have been recognized by the Italian Government," Lhuillier said in his acceptance speech.

Italian Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs Stefania Craxia presented the award to Lhuillier during the ceremonial luncheon on January 27.

Craxia said the award was given by the Italian government in appreciation of the contributions made by Lhuillier to the bilateral cooperation between Italy and the Philippines as he went beyond the normal call of duty in the promotion of friendship and solidarity between the two countries.

Lhuillier also thanked the Italian people for their kindness and warmth in dealing with OFWs in Italy.

The award was originally instituted in 1947 to recognize expatriates and foreigners who made an outstanding contribution to the reconstruction of Italy after World War II. 

It has since been awarded to diplomats and foreigners who have made significant achievements in fostering goodwill for the host country and the country represented by the diplomat.  This is the highest Italian award given to foreigners as well as Italians living abroad.

The badge bears the inscription Solidarietà Italiana encircling a depiction of the Good Samaritan.

The order is bestowed in 3 ranks by decree of the President of the Republic, head of the order, on the recommendation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs.  These are first class (grand officer), second class (commander), and third class (knight).