DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Ma. Anna Kathryna Pimentel has been sworn in by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as the Special Envoy to the United Arab Emirates. The ceremony took place at Malacañang Palace on June 4, 2024.
Ma. Anna, the wife of Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, also serves as the President of the PDP Cares Foundation. This organization is the humanitarian arm of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), focusing on various charitable activities and disaster response initiatives across the Philippines.
Senator Pimentel’s appointment comes at a significant time, as the Philippines continues to strengthen its diplomatic and economic ties with the UAE, a major partner in trade and a key destination for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
The Pimentel family has a notable political legacy. Senator Pimentel’s late father, former Senator Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel Jr., was a prominent political figure known for his advocacy for local government autonomy and human rights. He was a close ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte and played a crucial role in the establishment and growth of PDP-Laban.
Former Senator Nene Pimentel’s relationship with President Duterte dates back to their shared vision for federalism and local governance reforms. This connection underscores the enduring influence of the Pimentel family in Philippine politics and their ongoing contributions to public service.
Ma. Anna’s new role as Special Envoy to the UAE is expected to enhance bilateral relations, promote the welfare of OFWs, and attract more investments to the Philippines, further cementing the diplomatic bridge between the two nations.
