Doha, 05 July 2015 – Ambassador Wilfredo C. Santos conducted a 3-day training and workshop on Protocol and Social Graces for Doha PE officers and personnel on 28-30 June 2015. The seminar included topics related to the importance of protocol and social graces to the work of Embassy personnel as Filipino diplomats assigned in a foreign country. Ambassador Santos also discussed arrangements in the holding of various ceremonial activities and the hosting of different official and social functions at Post.

“Aside from practicing the professional code of conduct in the performance of your duties and responsibilities at all times, it is imperative for all of you to be cognizant of the importance of protocol in your professional lives,” said Ambassador Santos, who served as Director of the Ceremonials Division in the DFA Office of Protocol and State Visits early in his career.

“Protocol is something that you learn through experience and practice. The best way to develop these skills is at Post, where multi-tasking is not only encouraged but expected of all Embassy personnel,” he added.

The workshop likewise included topics on the manner of dressing for both  men and women, practical etiquette as well as protocol practices in other countries. It culminated in an exercise where Embassy personnel assumed different roles in a mock signing ceremony. The protocol workshop is one of the training seminars being arranged by the Embassy for the benefit and professional development of its personnel. Other topics will include handling stress in a work environment and improving customer service and management skills. END