Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn welcomed Philippine Ambassador to Thailand Millicent Cruz-Paredes during a farewell visit at the Provincial Governor’s reception room on Friday (Mar 13).
The meeting focused on strengthening ties between Phuket and the Philippines, with particular emphasis on education, tourism and support for the Filipino community living and working on the island.
Officials noted that approximately 1,600 Filipinos currently reside in Phuket, making it the second-largest Filipino population in Thailand after Bangkok. Most are employed as teachers and education personnel, playing a key role in the province’s international education sector.
Ambassador Cruz-Paredes highlighted Phuket as a major destination for Filipino tourists, alongside Bangkok and Chiang Mai. She added that the Philippine Embassy plans to expand its outreach in Phuket through consular services, healthcare support and initiatives to protect the rights of Filipino nationals.
Discussions also underscored the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Thailand and the Philippines, which marks its 77th anniversary this year. Both sides noted cultural similarities, including lifestyle and coastal tourism appeal, as a foundation for closer collaboration.
Governor Nirat said Phuket remains committed to supporting Filipino visitors and residents, describing the relationship between Thais and Filipinos as close and familiar. He also extended an invitation for more Filipino tourists to visit Phuket, promoting the island as a welcoming destination.
Both parties expressed interest in joint tourism promotion under a proposed ‘Two Countries, One Destination’ concept, aimed at leveraging the strengths of Phuket and the Philippines as leading island tourism hubs.
Ambassador Cruz-Paredes also thanked Phuket authorities for their support of the Filipino community, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when access to vaccines was prioritised for foreign residents. She further praised the governor’s experience in disaster management, especially in addressing flood situations, and voiced hope for continued cooperation in the future.