Outgoing Sri Lankan Ambassador to the Philippines Chanaka Talpahewa has been conferred the prestigious Order of Sikatuna, with the rank of Grand Cross, by Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in recognition of his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
According to the Sri Lankan Embassy in the Philippines, the award was presented during Ambassador Talpahewa’s farewell call on President Marcos at Malacañang Palace on October 28, 2026.
The Order of Sikatuna, established in 1953, is the Philippines’ national order of diplomatic merit, recognising distinguished contributions towards strengthening diplomatic relations with other countries.
During his tenure, Ambassador Talpahewa played a key role in expanding diplomatic, economic and cultural cooperation between Sri Lanka and the Philippines.
Among his major achievements was the resumption of political consultations between the two countries after a five-year suspension, restoring an important platform for bilateral dialogue.
His tenure also saw official visits to the Philippines by Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, strengthening high-level diplomatic engagement.
In the economic sector, Ambassador Talpahewa facilitated the first investments by Sri Lankan companies in the Philippine manufacturing industry and helped introduce two internationally recognised Sri Lankan brands to the country’s market.
He also negotiated a five-year temporary residence visa arrangement for Sri Lankan nationals married to Philippine citizens and residing in the Philippines, addressing a longstanding concern of the Sri Lankan community.
His diplomatic initiatives further included establishing Sri Lanka’s first Honorary Consulate in the Philippines, organising the first exposition of sacred relics from Sri Lanka and initiating arrangements for the first-ever joint postage stamps between the two countries.
In presenting the award, the Philippine government recognised Ambassador Talpahewa as an exceptionally worthy and competent representative of Sri Lanka. (Newswire)
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