MANDALUYONG CITY — Vice President Sara Duterte joined the Qatari Ambassador to the Philippines in distributing Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup promotional kits to daycare children at Mandaluyong City Hall Thursday morning.

Qatari Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency Dr. Ali Ibrahim Al-Malki brought the bags to the country as part of their promotional efforts for Qatar’s hosting of World Cup in November.

Ambassador Al-Malki said the distribution of souvenir kits also shows Qatar’s efforts to support children’s education.

“I also take this opportunity to point out that the distribution of these souvenirs comes in line with the State of Qatar's interest in developing Culture and Education, and support for school students, especially children, all over the world,” he said.

The Vice President thanked the Qatari embassy, adding that the partnership signifies strong friendships between Philippines and Qatar.

“I take pride in continuing linkages, cooperation, and meaningful exchanges between the Philippines and Qatar in four decades of our bilateral relations. This collaborative project is a testament to the developing ties between our nations,” Duterte said.

“Tayo ay nagpapasalamat sa atin pong Mr. Ambassador Al-Malki sa kanyang generosity sa ating mga daycare students and, of course, sa kanyang pagpapakita ng importansya sa edukasyon sa ating mga daycare students,” she told media in an interview.

Duterte said Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup — the first to be held in the Middle East — will surely be a success.

“I am confident that Qatar’s historic hosting of this event will be a success and will serve as a precedence for future international engagements,” she said before recipients, daycare teachers, and city government officials.

Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr., Mayor Benjamin “Ben”Abalos Sr., and Vice Mayor Carmelita “Menchie” Abalos also attended the event.

OVP MEDIA