Manila, July 25 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday recognized outgoing Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu's crucial role in enhancing the Philippines' relations with Australia.

In a farewell call athttps://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1255094 Palace in Manila, Marcos conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Gold Distinction on Yu for her "many significant contributions to strengthening the bilateral ties between the Philippines and the Commonwealth of Australia."

The Order of Sikatuna is the national order of diplomatic merit, conferred upon individuals who have rendered exceptional and meritorious service to the Republic of the Philippines.

Marcos acknowledged that it was under Yu's leade...