He expressed optimism that with the new Ambassador, the close ties between Portugal and the Philippines would reach greater heights to benefit both countries especially in the areas of trade and tourism. He also hoped that more people-to-people contacts would lead to further exchanges and the enrichment of both cultures.

Aside from the Philippine Ambassador, the resident Ambassadors from Sweden, Bulgaria and China also presented their credentials on the same day.

President Aquino nominated Ambassador Lhuillier as the country's envoy to Portugal in February 2012, and the Commission on Appointments confirmed his nomination on 14 March 2012. He previously served as the Philippine Ambassador to Italy from 1999 to 2010.

Ambassador Lhuillier vows to display the same level of commitment and dedication in accomplishing the tasks given to him by President Benigno S. Aquino III.

Ambassador Lhuillier is married to Edna Diago who hails from Dumaguete and they are blessed with two sons and five daughters.

Source: Department of Foreign Affairs