Virginia Honrado-Benavidez

Outstanding Achiever in Diplomacy and International Relations

As the first woman Philippine ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, Amba Gee, as she is fondly known, paved the way for the Brunei Sultan’s donation of the Grand Mosque in Cotabato City and activation of agreements protecting the Filipino community that saved hundreds from human trafficking and others from the death penalty. During her term, the first environmentally compliant Philippine Embassy Chancery was constructed. While ambassador to New Zealand, direct air connectivity between the Philippines and New Zealand began. A stalwart career diplomat, she has gained trust and friendship wherever posted, especially among overseas Filipinos whom she sincerely pledged to serve.