Saudi Marks Diplomatic Ties with the PH, Vows Continued Humanitarian Aid

Saudi Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Faisal Ebraheem Alghamdi

Saudi Marks Diplomatic Ties with the PH, Vows Continued Humanitarian Aid

By TheNationWeek.Com | September 25, 2025

MAKATI CITY, Philippines – Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing collaborative efforts with the Philippines on humanitarian and relief aid programs.

At a reception celebrating Saudi National Day on Tuesday evening (Sept. 23, 2025), Saudi Ambassador to the Philippines Faisal Ebraheem Alghamdi cited the significant impact of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, which has allocated over $5.8 million for humanitarian projects in the Philippines.

The funds have facilitated at least 16 humanitarian and relief programs nationwide, with a focus on advancements in the healthcare sector.

“The Kingdom firmly believes that its security, stability, and prosperity are intrinsically linked to global peace and cooperation,” Alghamdi said.

“This conviction is reflected in its active engagement in regional and international organizations, as well as its humanitarian and developmental initiatives that reach across the globe—underscoring its noble mission to serve humanity.”

A notable example of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to healthcare in the Philippines is its sponsorship of the separation surgery for conjoined twins Kleah and Maureen Ann, marking the third instance in which Filipino twins have benefited from the Kingdom’s medical assistance program.

Beyond healthcare, Saudi Arabia is also strengthening educational collaborations with the Philippines by providing scholarships to Filipino students.

For the academic year 2025–2026, the Kingdom has awarded 265 scholarships to Filipinos pursuing higher education at Saudi universities.

“This initiative exemplifies the Kingdom’s steadfast dedication to nurturing cultural and educational connections with the Philippines and creating new avenues for Filipino youth to engage with its advanced academic system,” the ambassador declared.

In a separate address, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Maria Theresa Dizon-De Vega echoed Saudi sentiments, expressing the Philippine government’s enthusiasm for further deepening collaboration with the Arab nation.

The formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia began on Oct. 24, 1969.

Today, the Kingdom hosts a large Filipino community, with over 700,000 workers and residents actively contributing to the Saudi economy and cultural landscape.

The Philippines and Saudi Arabia prepare to commemorate the 56th anniversary of their diplomatic relations next month.