AMBASSADOR RICCIARDONE ENDS PHILIPPINES TOUR OF DUTY MID-MAY

Ambassador Ricciardone will conclude his assignment to the Republic of the Philippines and return to Washington on May 13, after a tenure of over
three years. Ambassador Ricciardone and his spouse, Dr. Marie Ricciardone, have expressed their fondest appreciation for the friendship and warm welcome from so many Filipinos, Americans and other friends in Davao. He has especially enjoyed watching the Philippine-American relationship grow stronger not only in Davao but in the Mindanao region. Deputy Chief of Mission Joseph A. Mussomeli will continue in Manila as Charge' d'Affaires, ad interim. The White House has not yet announced a nominee to succeed Ambassador Ricciardone.

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