New Zealand Embassy - Manila, Philippines

📢 EMBASSY CLOSURE - 2 SEPTEMBER 2024

In view of the continuous rainfall brought about by the Southwest Monsoon and Tropical Storm "Enteng," the New Zealand Embassy in Manila will be closed from 12:30H today, 2 September 2024. Embassy staff will be working remotely and may still be reached through appropriate channels.

New Zealand nationals in the Philippines requiring emergency assistance should contact the local emergency services on the following numbers:

• National Emergency Hotline | 911
• Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) | 8527-3877 / 8527-8482
• Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) | 136 / 8882-4151 to 77
• Philippine Red Cross (PRC) | 143 / 8790-2300
• Philippine National Police (PNP) | 9117 / 8723-0401 / 8537-4500
• Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) | 8426-0231 / 8426-0195
• Department of Health (DOH) | 8711-1001 to 02 / 8740-5030
• National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) | 8911-1406
• Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) | 8284-0800
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) | 8931-8108

If you require urgent consular assistance, please call +64 99 20 20 20 or email the New Zealand Embassy in Manila at [email protected]

📢 New Zealanders in the Philippines should be aware that Tropical Storm YAGI (Local Name: ENTENG) is forecast to move generally northwestward in the next 24 hours. ENTENG may possibly make landfall over Isabela or Cagayan this afternoon or tonight. The enhanced Southwest Monsoon will bring moderate to intense rainfall in other areas of Luzon and Visayas (especially along the western portions).

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is issuing advice on https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/.../severe-weather-bulletin and social media platforms, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PAGASA.DOST.GOV.PH/ and Twitter: https://twitter.com/dost_pagasa

New Zealanders in the Philippines are advised to update their registration information or take this opportunity to register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade here https://register.safetravel.govt.nz/login It is also important to keep family and friends in New Zealand updated on your welfare.

New Zealand nationals in the Philippines requiring emergency assistance should contact the local emergency services on the following numbers:

• National Emergency Hotline | 911
• Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) | 8527-3877 / 8527-8482
• Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) | 136 / 8882-4151 to 77
• Philippine Red Cross (PRC) | 143 / 8790-2300
• Philippine National Police (PNP) | 9117 / 8723-0401 / 8537-4500
• Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) | 8426-0231 / 8426-0195
• Department of Health (DOH) | 8711-1001 to 02 / 8740-5030
• National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) | 8911-1406
• Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) | 8284-0800
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) | 8931-8108

If you require urgent consular assistance, please call +64 99 20 20 20 or email the New Zealand Embassy in Manila at [email protected]

STATEMENT OF THE NEW ZEALAND EMBASSY IN MANILA

This latest incident, with a CCG vessel ramming a Philippine vessel, is profoundly troubling and fits a recent pattern of dangerous and destabilising actions in the region. New Zealand calls for de-escalation and compliance with international law, in particular UNCLOS.

Pohūhū ana mai a Taupiri kuao ūe, ūe, āuē taukuri e
Nā wai taku ahi i tipoko kia māeke ai taku kiri
Nā Mate-Kai-Tangata, nā Aitua-horo-arikinui e
Tukuna te waikamo anō he uamairangi e
Tihorea ngā kahu o māuiui, o hārukiruki i tō tinana
Haere rirerire atu rā ki ō tuaiho e tatari mai nā
Hoki atu rā ki ngā tāhuna o Rongomaiwhiti
Ki a Hawaiiki tau e taku āriki e moe e…

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero Te Tuawhitu.

Kiingi Tuheitia was committed to advancing the kaupapa of kotahitanga (unity) and mahitahi (collaboration). He was a staunch advocate for te ao Māori continuing the legacy of his tupuna including his late mother Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu in developing enduring relationships with leaders and people across the globe.

Our thoughts are with his whānau and iwi at this sad time.

E te Ariki, moe mai rā i roto i te rangimarie. Pai Maarire.

STATEMENT OF THE NEW ZEALAND EMBASSY IN MANILA

New Zealand is deeply concerned by dangerous actions in the last week targeting Philippine aircraft and vessels, including today’s ramming incident where Chinese Coast Guard vessels harassed a Philippine vessel near Sabina Shoal. New Zealand calls for peaceful resolution of disputes in full accordance with UNCLOS.

📢 The New Zealand Embassy in Manila will be closed on 26 August 2024 in observance of National Heroes Day.

If you are a New Zealand national in need of urgent consular assistance during the holidays, please call +64 99 20 20 20.

Celebrating women in business!🎉

On 14 August 2024, Ambassador Catherine McIntosh joined the company of Women Business Leaders for Go Negosyo's "Women in Collaboration of MSME Development" event at the Manila Polo Club. The event gathered Filipina business leaders to celebrate how women-led businesses transform the business landscape. 🌟

New Zealand is committed to empowering women entrepreneurs and driving innovation. We’re celebrating the remarkable achievements of MSMEs and envisioning a future where women lead the way! 🚀

Images courtesy of Go Negosyo 📸

🇵🇭 🇳🇿 Stronger Together Against Crime!

On 16 July 2024, representatives from the New Zealand Customs Service (NZCS) and New Zealand Police (NZP) met with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) - Intelligence Group to discuss pathways to enhance intelligence cooperation against National Organized Crime Groups (NOCGs). Both agencies shared common tactics used in countering trans-national crime and cross-border smuggling and developed strategies to counter illicit activities.

This meeting marks a useful step forward in Philippines-New Zealand joint efforts to protect our borders and citizens by disrupting the operations of transnational organised criminal syndicates.

Statement of the New Zealand Embassy in Manila

New Zealand is deeply concerned by the dangerous actions today by Chinese vessels towards Philippine vessels near Sabina Shoal, which caused damage and put lives at danger. Peaceful resolution of maritime disputes in accordance with UNCLOS is fundamental to regional stability.

🇵🇭🇳🇿 PH-NZ Momentum Soars! 🌟

On 13 August 2024, Ambassador of New Zealand to the Philippines, Dr Catherine McIntosh, joined the Anzcham - Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce of the PhilippinesMonthly Members Meeting. Alongside Trade Commissioner, Cecilia Shand, Ambassador McIntosh delivered the keynote message, underscoring New Zealand’s commitment to lifting its partnership with the Philippines and exploring opportunities to increase two-way trade by 50% by 2030.

The event featured a dynamic discussion on the evolving NZ-PH relationship, focusing on key areas such as geothermal expertise, education and business process outsourcing. Ambassador McIntosh emphasized the momentum building between our countries, building on the recent visits of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters.

The meeting concluded with an engaging networking session, fostering new connections and strengthening existing relationships. Thanks, ANZCHAM for their invaluable support in making this event a success! 🌏🤝

🕊️Peace building through community🤝

Aotearoa New Zealand Embassy hosted the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF) Country Support Mechanism (CSM) Meeting, on 2 August 2024. Ambassador Catherine McIntosh warmly welcomed members which included representatives from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Anti-Terrorism Council Program Management Centre (ATC PMC), Armed Forces of the Philippines – Peace and Development Office (AFP PDO), Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), Bangsamoro Transition Authority – Policy, Research and Legal Services (BTA-PRLS), Institute for Autonomy and Governance (IAG), Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), and the Embassy of Australia in the Philippines.

During the meeting, CSM Chair, DILG, represented by Undersecretary for Peace and Order Oscar Valenzuela and Assistant Secretary for Legal and Legislative Affairs Romeo Benitez shared about developments and prospects for the Philippines. Likewise, Ambassador McIntosh also expressed hope, saying "I hope our investment will continue to energise and inspire as we collectively pursue our aspirations towards peace building.”

New Zealand is a member of the CSM, a multi-stakeholder entity composed of representatives from the government, sub-national authorities, and local civil society, and private sector, bilateral, multilateral and regional organizations active in the Philippines. New Zealand contributes to advancing inclusive local governance and promoting conflicting resolution mechanisms through GCERF’s 29 local partners across 10 provinces in the Philippines.

On World Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we celebrate the strides in leadership and education that empower indigenous voices globally! 🌏✨

The New Zealand Embassy in Manila congratulates Director Dahlialyn Dait-Cawed of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples for completing the Manaaki New Zealand Short Term Training Scholarship on Public Sector Leadership (PSL) at Kāpuhipuhi Wellington Uni-Professional.

Reflecting on her journey, Director Cawed shared her deep appreciation for New Zealand’s top-tier educational institutions and the unique experience that connected her with ASEAN cohorts. “This vision of training world leaders, especially in developing countries, is one that I am proud to be a part of,” she expressed.

As an indigenous person, she felt at home in New Zealand’s multicultural heritage, finding a shared energy that binds indigenous communities globally. “The NZ MANAAKI experience will always hold a special place in my heart,” she concluded, grateful for the connections and lifelong friendships made.

The Public Sector Leadership Senior Level Course aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of ASEAN officials, contributing to improved public sector efficiency and effectiveness in their home countries.

🌿 A BRAVE Step Towards Community Empowerment 🌍

On 29 July 2024, the Aotearoa New Zealand Embassy, in collaboration with Kabalikat sa Kaunlaran ng Baseco, proudly unveiled the Baseco Recyclers, Advocates, and Vanguards for the Environment (BRAVE) community Recycling Facility. This pioneering facility aims to provide green jobs for local resource collectors and tackle ocean plastic pollution. The BRAVE initiative is a partnership between Kabalikat sa Baseco, the local government of Barangay 649 Baseco, Urban Poor Associates, and Sentinel UpCycling Technologies. ♻️🌊

To mark this grassroots milestone, New Zealand Ambassador Dr. Catherine McIntosh expressed her high hopes for the project. “Hangarin ko na ang kontribusyon ng New Zealand ay magbibigay ng inspirasyon sa inyong paglalakbay kasama ang Barangay Baseco sa pamumuno ni Barangay Captain Diana Espinosa, at ang mga organisasyon ng Urban Poor Associates at Sentinel Upcycling Technologies, tungo sa pag-unlad ng Barangay Baseco.” 🌱🌟

The New Zealand Embassy extends its gratitude to our development partners who supported the launch: Samahan ng Mamamayan - Zone One Tondo Organisation (SM-ZOTO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Philippines, United Nations (UN) Women Philippines, and Koalisyon ng Organisadong Samahan ng Maralitang Taga-lungsod (KOSMAT). 🤝🌏

Aotearoa New Zealand Ambassador Dr Catherine McIntosh and her husband, Anglican Priest Rev Paul McIntosh, had a special evening hosting leaders from the Episcopal Church in the Philippines (Anglican Communion) ECP.Official and Anglican Church in Aotearoa New Zealand & Polynesia at a reception at the New Zealand Official Residence in Manila.

The reception was an opportunity for Ambassador Catherine and Rev Paul to engage Archbishop Don Tamihere, currently the Bishop of the Māori Anglican Church and one of the three Primates of the Anglican Church of Aotearoa New Zealand and Polynesia in a conversation on indigenous spirituality. Archbishop Don underscored the importance of indigeneity as a powerful and credible asset in building high trust relationships. He described the role of the church as not only a centre of worship but a life-giving apparatus which can proactively respond to community challenges such as natural disasters.

Archbishop Don was accompanied by Venerable Dr. Hirini Kaa, Principal of St. John's Theological College Theological College; Rev. Michael Tamihere, Archdeacon for Theological Education; and Mr Simon Heath, lay leader and education and management consultant.

Episcopal Church in the Philippines was represented by Most Rev Brent Alawas, Prime Bishop; Rt Rev Nestor Poltic, Prime Bishop-elect; Atty Floyd Lalwet, Provincial Secretary, Chancellor, and National Development Officer; Rev Dr Gay Manodon, Anglican Alliance Facilitator for East Asia; and Rev Daniel Woods, Deacon of the Diocese of Central Philippines. Such a rich exchange between Aotearoa New Zealand and the Philippines.

Aotearoa New Zealand Embassy congratulates the graduates of the ASEAN Renewable Energy Project Management Short Term Training Scholarship at the Geothermal Institute, University of Auckland - Waipapa Taumata Rau in New Zealand.

Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy - BARMM (MENRE) Renewable Energy Section Head Eduardo Longakit expressed: “I am very grateful to the New Zealand Government for providing me with the Manaaki Scholarship, which allowed me to attend the Renewable Energy Project Management Program in New Zealand. The experience has been transformative, equipping me with invaluable skills and insights into sustainable energy practices. I look forward to applying this knowledge to contribute to the renewable energy sector in the Philippines, especially in the Bangsamoro Region. Thank you for your support and belief in my potential.”

Energy Development Corporation (EDC) Portfolio Management Advisor Jonathan Caparas said, “The NZ STTS Manaaki Renewable Energy Project Management Training, complemented by a field trip, was a highly educational and enriching experience. It provided a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of renewable energy projects, enabling participants to effectively manage and execute such initiatives in the future. The hands-on experience and exposure to real-world technologies were invaluable, reinforcing the concepts learned during the course. Additionally, the training offered an excellent opportunity for networking and collaboration with professionals, Renewable Energy experts from different ASEAN nationalities and cultures elevating the learning experience with diverse perspectives and fostering a sense of community and connection among participants. Very big thanks to MFAT, Manaaki NZSTTS, University of Auckland Geothermal Institute and Skills Consulting Group for this very remarkable opportunity and experience!”

Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) Engineer Mark Joefel Cadiz expressed: “Completing the Renewable Energy Project Management Course (REPM) at the University of Auckland’s Geothermal Institute is a gratifying and transformative experience. The course facilitated by industry-expert instructors was well-structured and comprehensive, covering Renewable Energy fundamentals and Project Management techniques. I am excited about applying the acquired skills and techniques to my role as a regulator in our country. It also provided networking opportunities with co-scholars, industry leaders, and fellow regulators which is good for professional development and prospects. The REPM course is highly recommended to anyone passionate about shifting to and making a meaningful impact in the renewable energy field. Thank you MFAT, Manaaki NZSTTS, Skills Consulting Group, and University of Auckland – Geothermal Institute for this opportunity and experience.”

BARMM MENRE Engineering Assistant Saiden Macalimpas discussed: “I am extremely grateful to the New Zealand Government for giving me the Manaaki Scholarship, which made it possible for me to become a participant in the program for renewable energy project management in New Zealand. My perspective on sustainable energy methods has changed significantly as a result of this experience, which has also given me valuable abilities. I'm excited to contribute this expertise to support the Philippines' renewable energy industry, particularly in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Thank you MFAT, Manaaki NZSTTS, and Geothermal Institute for trusting my potential abilities and grateful experience.”

EDC Head of Regulatory Officers Ann Christine Rojo remarked: “The course was a wonderful professional and personal learning journey that will surely enhance the performance of my work as Head of the Regulatory Affairs of the Energy Development Corporation (EDC). The knowledge and experiences shared by our 17 lecturers for the REPM course allowed me to better understand the basic technical requirements of the RE technologies such as biomass, geothermal, solar, hydro and wind, as well as the various challenges besetting the further development and utilization of these RE technologies. Most importantly, the chance to discuss with our lecturers concerns specific to the Philippine setting provided very useful insights on how such concerns are being addressed in New Zealand and other jurisdictions, and how some of these may be applicable to the Philippines. The field trip to the geothermal, hydro, landfill biogas and biomass projects were also very interesting. The chance to visit the Marae and enjoy the Maori hangi dinner was unforgettable! Working with my fellow Filipino colleagues during the per country exercises as well as with my group mates from Cambodia, Laos, Timor Leste and Vietnam for our business case presentation was exciting, fun and insightful as we got to discover new things and information about each other and the culture of our respective countries, plus we learned about how RE development was also being promoted in order to help countries achieve their Nationally Determined Contributions.”

New Zealand played a leading role in the pioneering stage of geothermal development in the Philippines. Today, New Zealand technology plays an important role in all of the major geothermal sites in the Philippines. The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, through its International Development Cooperation programme, continues to support renewable energy through its postgraduate and short term scholarships.


Department of Energy Philippines (Kagawaran ng Enerhiya)
Study with New Zealand
Skills Group

New Zealand extends its sympathy to those affected by Typhoon Carina. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand ready to consider any request for assistance by the Philippine government. 🇵🇭🇳🇿

📢 New Zealanders in the Philippines should be aware that Typhoon CARINA is forecast to further intensify as it heads towards Taiwan. The Southwest Monsoon enhanced by CARINA will bring moderate to intense rainfall over various localities in the western portion of Luzon today through Friday.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is issuing advice on https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/.../severe-weather-bulletin and social media platforms, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PAGASA.DOST.GOV.PH/ and Twitter: https://twitter.com/dost_pagasa

New Zealanders in the Philippines are advised to update their registration information or take this opportunity to register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade here https://register.safetravel.govt.nz/login It is also important to keep family and friends in New Zealand updated on your welfare.

New Zealand nationals in the Philippines requiring emergency assistance should contact the local emergency services on the following numbers:

• National Emergency Hotline | 911
• Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) | 8527-3877 / 8527-8482
• Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) | 136 / 8882-4151 to 77
• Philippine Red Cross (PRC) | 143 / 8790-2300
• Philippine National Police (PNP) | 9117 / 8723-0401 / 8537-4500
• Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) | 8426-0231 / 8426-0195
• Department of Health (DOH) | 8711-1001 to 02 / 8740-5030
• National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) | 8911-1406
• Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) | 8284-0800
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) | 8931-8108

If you require urgent consular assistance, please call +64 99 20 20 20 or email the New Zealand Embassy in Manila at [email protected]

📢 EMBASSY CLOSURE - 24 JULY 2024

In view of the continuous rainfall brought about by the Southwest Monsoon and Typhoon "Carina," the New Zealand Embassy in Manila will be closed today, 24 July 2024. Embassy staff will be working remotely and may still be reached through appropriate channels.

New Zealand nationals in the Philippines requiring emergency assistance should contact the local emergency services on the following numbers:

• National Emergency Hotline | 911
• Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) | 8527-3877 / 8527-8482
• Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) | 136 / 8882-4151 to 77
• Philippine Red Cross (PRC) | 143 / 8790-2300
• Philippine National Police (PNP) | 9117 / 8723-0401 / 8537-4500
• Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) | 8426-0231 / 8426-0195
• Department of Health (DOH) | 8711-1001 to 02 / 8740-5030
• National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) | 8911-1406
• Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) | 8284-0800
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) | 8931-8108

If you require urgent consular assistance, please call +64 99 20 20 20 or email the New Zealand Embassy in Manila at [email protected]

Aotearoa New Zealand Embassy in Manila congratulates Bangsamoro Parliament Deputy Speaker Atty. Laisa Masuhud Alamia (Office of MP Laisa Masuhud Alamia) and Member of Parliament Froilyn Tenorio Mendoza (Office of MP Froilyn T. Mendoza) for successfully completing the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Manaaki New Zealand Short Term Training Scholarship on Public Sector Leadership Senior Level Course at the Kāpuhipuhi Wellington Uni-Professional.

Laisa shared that the, “The ASEAN Public Sector Leadership Programme was truly transformative. It was an honor to learn alongside my esteemed colleagues from across Southeast Asia, sharing experiences and insights that enriched our understanding of leadership and public service. The program provided invaluable exposure to New Zealand's innovative approaches to governance, strategic planning, and communication. We explored transformative leadership, mentoring, negotiation, and the power of effective communication -- skills that will undoubtedly enhance our work back home. I'm immensely grateful to the New Zealand government, Manaaki Scholarship, Victoria University of Wellington, and the people of New Zealand for their generosity and warm hospitality. This and the collaborative spirit of the program have not only deepened my own leadership capabilities but also empowered aspiring leaders across ASEAN, including myself, to broaden our horizons and strengthen our commitment to effective governance.”

Froilyn expressed: “The learning program was one of a kind and I feel privileged to be part of it. On a personal note, the trip to New Zealand reenergized me, including its weather and the people. I appreciate how the modules were arranged, focusing on personal behavior and values in public service. Various tools were introduced that I can use in developing the capability framework for my organization, which will focus on mainstreaming indigenous education through the establishment of schools of living tradition, a personal advocacy of mine even before I entered public service. Diversity of speakers and participants contributed to engaging discussions. Peer-to-peer activities enabled me to build relations with other scholars from ASEAN. I will be missing Professor Pak Yoong. It was very emotional during our graduation day but my fellow scholars and I remain in touch through our group chat. I will re-echo what I have learned to the Indigenous youth for them to draw inspiration from.”

The Public Sector Leadership Senior Level Course has been created to increase the knowledge and skills of ASEAN officials in Public Sector Leadership that will lead to improved public sector efficiency and effectiveness in participant home countries. The design, management, and delivery of the course was led by Programme Director and Emeritus Professor Dr. Pak Yoong of the Wellington School of Business and Government, Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

📸 FLASHBACK FRIDAY: Manaaki New Zealand Alumni reunited during New Zealand Embassy Manila’s annual Alumni Event held on 9 June 2024 at the New Zealand Official Residence.

NZ Ambassador Dr. Catherine McInstosh conveyed: “Maraming salamat po sa inyong pagdalo sa espesyal na okasyong ito. Tonight, we are celebrating our people – both New Zealand Alumni and our increasing Indigenous Peoples’ connections.”

NZ Deputy Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Rt Hon Winston Peters engaged with the alumni and development partners, some of whom travelled from Northern Luzon and Mindanao to personally attend the event.

Manaaki Alumni build life-long connections with each other, and with New Zealand and the Philippines, while gaining educational pathways to success.

Participants can access the photo booth images here https://www.facebook.com/media/set?vanity=flipfunphotobooth&set=a.1007654674694077



New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade