19 April 2006 – The Department of Foreign Affairs announced that a Romanian national has written Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto G. Romulo to express her enjoyment of her visit in Manila in the middle of March 2006, and her gratitude to a taxi driver who returned her handbag to her on 20 March 2006.

Ms. Rodica Ramona Tufan of Bucharest, Romania wrote in her letter dated 26 March 2006 to Secretary Romulo, “I had a wonderful time staying in your country, and I have also learned more about Filipino culture and history.  Furthermore, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Melvin B. Caymo, a cab driver and a resident of Panday Pira St., Tondo, Manila for his honesty in returning my hand carry-on bag and its contents intact, which I left in his cab last March 20, 2006.  I offered him a reward for his honesty but he politely declined.”

She continued to state, “Mr. Caymo’s singular act of uprightness captures me and thus earned (my) respect and admiration for the Filipino people. I also appreciate the Filipino’s work ethic and hospitality… In return, as I go back home, I will encourage my relatives and friends to come and see Manila, Philippines.”

Ms. Tufan likewise thanked the Philippine Embassy in Bucharest for “attending immediately” to her needs before traveling as a tourist to the Philippines.

She closed her letter by saying, “May your active pursuit continue (to be) of the highest quality of service in everything you do.  I am confident that the Philippines will become a prime tourist destination in Asia.”

The Department stated that it will present a Letter of Commendation to Mr. Caymo for his exemplary act of honesty.  END