Arroyo confers Order of Sikatuna on UN sec-gen

MANILA, Philippines - President Arroyo conferred Wednesday night the Order of Sikatuna (Rank of Rajah) on visiting United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon. A Malacañang statement said Ban was cited for his achievements in international relations and for his invaluable contribution for the advancement of global peace and development, the protection of human rights, and the pursuit of local UN endeavors. "I am deeply touched by this honor. I am profoundly honored to represent the UN and the deep friendship we enjoy with the Philippines," Ban said. The Order of Sikatuna, the national order of diplomatic merit, is conferred on individuals who have exceptional and meritorious record of service in international relations. On the other hand, the rank of Rajah is the highest rank in the order. Ban, the eighth secretary-general of the United Nations, had served as Korea's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade. "His long tenure with the Ministry included postings in New Delhi, Washington D.C. and Vienna. He also held various other portfolios, including that of Foreign Policy Adviser to the President, Chief National Security Adviser to the President, Deputy Minister for Policy Planning and Director-General of American Affairs," the Palace said. "Throughout this service, Ban Ki-Moon's guiding vision was that of a peaceful Korean peninsula playing an expanding role towards peace and prosperity in the region and the wider world," it added. Ban also received his second honorary doctorate degree from the University of the Philippines Wednesday when it bestowed on him the signal honor in UP Diliman. - GMANews.TV