Koko receives Russian Federation’s badge for cooperation

MAKATI CITY, Philippines - Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III was honored with the prestigious Badge for Cooperation by the Russian Federation in a ceremony held at the Russian Ambassador's Residence, Dasmariñas Village, Makati City.

The award recognizes Senator Pimentel’s contributions to strengthening Philippines-Russia relations.

In his acceptance speech, Senator Pimentel expressed his deep admiration for Russia, highlighting its vast history, cultural heritage, scientific achievements, and resilience as a nation.

He fondly recalled his childhood passion for chess and his early exposure to Russian grandmasters, which instilled in him a lifelong respect for Russian intellect and discipline.

"That I should work to strengthen my country’s relations with Russia came as a natural objective for me," Pimentel remarked. "Who wouldn’t want to have strong relations with such a great nation?"

Pimentel underscored Russia’s contributions to science, literature, arts, and global discourse, citing figures such as Yuri Gagarin, Dmitri Mendeleev, Leo Tolstoy, and Pyotr Tchaikovsky.

He also emphasized Russia’s economic strengths and its vast natural resources, advocating for deeper cooperation between the Philippines and Russia in various fields.

Drawing from Russian philosophy, Pimentel reflected on the concept of the velikaya russkaya dusha, or "great Russian soul," which he described as a model for unity and shared humanity.

"If we treat our neighbor’s pain as our pain, then any hardship can be overcome. If we treat our neighbor’s joy as our joy, then the more we can find pleasure in lifting each other up," he said.

Pimentel concluded with a quote from Russian poet and diplomat Fyodor Tyutchev, affirming his belief in the enduring friendship between the Philippines and Russia.

"I believe in the good soul of the Russian nation. And I believe that the Filipino people will tremendously benefit from close Russian-Philippine friendship."

The Badge for Cooperation is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to fostering diplomatic and economic ties with Russia.

Senator Pimentel’s recognition marks a milestone in strengthening the Philippines' bilateral relations with one of the world's most influential nations.

On December 17, 2024, the Senate adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 25, granting consent for Pimentel to accept the Badge for Cooperation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.

The event was graced by Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Marat Pavlov and attended by esteemed guests, including his wife, Special Envoy of the President to the UAE for Trade and Investments Ma. Anna Kathryna Yu-Pimentel, Mrs. Lourdes Pimentel (mother), Mrs. Imelda Yu (mother-in-law), Atty. Gwendolyn Pimentel-Gana (sister), Ms. Teresa Lourdes Pimentel (sister), and Senator Joel Villanueva.

Also present were Atty. Daniel Salomon (Chief of Staff, Office of Senator Pimentel), Atty. Gretchen Dela Cruz (Chief Legislative Lawyer, Office of Senator Pimentel), Mr. Gino Baltao, Mr. Alfredo Rizalito Alejar, Mr. Danilo Ngo, and Mr. Abel Manliclic (Rotary Club of Manila Bay co-members), Mr. Benito Techico (Special Envoy of the President to China for Trade, Investments, and Tourism), and Ms. Karen Santos (Special Envoy of the President to the UAE for Culture and Arts).

Other notable attendees included Director General Antonio de Guzman Jr. (Senate International Relations and Protocol), Ms. Antonette Stephanie Y. Chua (sister-in-law and Marikina campaign manager), Ms. Josephine Angela Yu (Admin & Finance Officer, Office of Senator Pimentel), Barangay Captain Efren H. Managuit, Barangay Captain Fernando Mira, and Barangay Kagawad Imee Luna Mascariña (Marikina local officials), Ms. Bernadette B. Golfo (Marikina local leader), and Mr. Antonio Borromeo (Rotary President 101).

Representing the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) were Assistant Secretary for European Affairs Maria Elena Algabre and Assistant Director Jaybee Arguillas (Russia Division, Office of European Affairs), along with Director Raymond Sabarre (Senate International Relations and Protocol).