Holy See, Philippines mark 70 years of diplomatic relations It was on April 8, 1951 that representatives of the Holy See and the Philippines signed a treaty establishing diplomatic relations. By Robin Gomes The Holy See and the Philippines on Thursday marked the 70 years of diplomatic relations between the two states. Due to the restrictions of the pandemic, the anniversary was marked by a virtual event and a message by the Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs. Outgoing Philippine ambassador to the Holy See, Grace Relucio-Princesa, reaffirmed her nation’s commitment to further strengthen the bilateral relations. She assured the government’s continued partnership with the Church because “there’s really room for engagement”. “Let the Philippine embassy in the Vatican start this: diplomacy for humanity, diplomacy for the common good, and one of this is migration,” said the 65-year-old diplomat who is retiring.