Lao People’s Democratic Republic Prime Minister (PM) Thongsing Thammavong paid his respect to the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal on the second day of his Official Visit to the Philippines.

In simple ceremonies at the Rizal Park in Manila on Friday morning, PM Thongsing Thammavong offered flowers to the Filipino hero.

Upon his arrival, the Lao PDR leader was welcomed and joined by government officials led by Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim and Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command Vice Admiral Alexander Pama, among others.

Also in attendance were Prasit Sayasith, chief protocol officer of Lao-PDR; Sulpicio Confiado, deputy chief of the Presidential Protocol Office for the Philippine side and the Lao-PDR delegation.

Following the wreath-laying ceremony, PM Thongsing Thammavong received a symbolic key to the City of Manila, a native fan and cigar from Mayor Lim.

During the visit, the government of the Philippines and Lao-PDR signed several memoranda of understanding in the fields of trade, education, foreign service and sports cooperation.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said that the two countries are presently focusing on the integration of their economies and culture.

The Philippines and Lao-PDR have been enjoying a long-standing harmonious cooperation as evidenced by their 57-year bilateral relations.