Our cross-cultural friendships continue! 

On 6 February, we honored New Zealand's national day known as "Waitangi Day." It commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi by NZ's indigenous Māori people and the British Crown 184 years ago, marking the country's founding document. While they may be miles from our country, I think it's safe to say we did a great job of making them feel right at home here.

Esteemed guests flocked to the Fairmont Hotel in Makati to join the New Zealand Embassy in Manila to honor this occasion and to catch up, too. One of my best chats — and photo ops! — of the night was with the New Zealand ambassador himself, His Excellency Peter Kell. He welcomed us all with empowering remarks on the continued camaraderie and commitment to the partnership of our two countries.