History of Diplomatic Relations between the Philippines and Switzerland

On 30 August 1956, Switzerland and the Philippines established diplomatic relations, with the year 2006 marking their relations’ golden anniversary.

Swiss-Philippine bilateral relations actually predate formal diplomatic relations. Interaction between the two countries can be traced back to the early 1800s when Swiss traders, missionaries and travelers ventured into Southeast Asia. The idea of opening a Swiss official representation in the Philippines was initiated in 1851, which finally culminated in the establishment of a Swiss honorary consulate in Manila in 1862. Since then, exchanges between the two countries have flourished, particularly in the economic, cultural, social and political spheres. These collaborative efforts have also been strengthened through the signing of numerous agreements in the fields of investments, visa waiver, mutual legal assistance, extradition, avoidance of double taxation, social security, and exchange of professional and technical trainees, among others. 

Philippines-Liechtenstein Relations

Diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Principality of Liechtenstein were formally established on 24 November 1995 when Ambassador Tomas T. Syquia, Philippine Ambassador to Berne, Switzerland, presented his credentials as a non-resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of the Philippines to the Principality of Liechtenstein to His Serene Highness Prince Hans Adam II. This momentous occasion marked the initial step towards furthering our relationship with a country in Europe which has become a favorite home for many companies because of its liberal tax legislation.