Ambassador Kira Christianne D. Azucena met with Ms. Kolotia Fotu, Deputy CEO and Head of the Labor Division at Tonga’s Ministry of Trade and Economic Development (MTED), during her official visit to present her credentials to His Majesty King Tupou VI.

During the meeting, Ambassador Azucena cited the opportunity for Tonga and the Philippines to collaborate on labor mobility and labor management, citing the Philippines’ vast experience on the matter.

The Deputy CEO expressed particular interest in the Philippines’ reintegration program for migrant workers, seeing its value in creating mechanisms to support returning Tongans after overseas employment and encouraging others to take up local work opportunities in Tonga.

The meeting underscored the mutual interest of both countries in strengthening ties and exploring collaborative solutions for labor mobility and worker protection.