Joseph Mussomeli – “Joe” to his many Filipino friends – has served two Tours of Duty in the Philippines.  His attachment to the Philippines is also reinforced by the fact that his wife, Sharon, and their daughter, Alexie, were both born in the Philippines, and would be Filipino citizens if jus soli were the applicable law on citizenship here.

During his posting in Manila, Mr. Mussomeli played a key role in the initiation, signing and implementation of various bilateral agreements in the areas of military reform, law enforcement, economic development and science and technology.  These agreements helped push forward our country’s development goals and further affirmed the vibrant and active relationship between the Philippines and the US

Moreover, notable events in our bilateral relations with the US took place, particularly the exchange of visits between President Arroyo and President Bush in 2003.  This further reinforced the strategic alliance between our two countries and paved the way for closer cooperation in various common areas of interest.

Rather than simply relying on reports from his subordinates at the Embassy, Mr. Mussomeli frequently travels around the country, particularly to Mindanao, to personally look into the conditions of remote communities and to oversee the implementation of various U.S.-funded development assistance projects.  He always projects warmth and approachability wherever he goes with his indefatigable character and sense of humor.  With his hands-on style of diplomacy, he has established enduring friendships with Filipinos in his years of service in the Philippines.

Indeed, Mr. Mussomeli played an important role in steering the RP-US alliance through several critical episodes in our relationship.  In view of his significant contribution to the enhancement of RP and U.S. bilateral relations, most importantly to the promotion and sustainment of peace and development in Mindanao, it was my privilege to have conferred the Order of Sikatuna, Rank of Lakan on US Chargé d’Affaires Joseph H. Mussomeli.  As he ends his tour of duty in Manila, we hope to be able to build on the contributions he has made in strengthening the country’s bilateral relationship with the US.

We wish you all the best in your next assignment as US Ambassador to Cambodia.  Congratulations! END