HONORARY Consul of Lebanon to the Philippines Joseph Assad recalled the beginning of his deployment in the country as a baptism of fire.
With no roadmap but enormous resolve, Assad said he took a plunge into the whirlwind of consular responsibilities.
He was appointed by the Lebanese ambassador as acting consul and was immediately tasked with assisting the ambassador in meeting local governors across various provinces.
"It was a baptism of fire," Assad told The Manila Times, describing the beginning of his 26-year career.
"I found myself accompanying him everywhere, learning the ropes one meeting at a time," he added.
What followed were four intensive months of immersion that taught him firsthand the nuances of representing a nation abroad.
The role offered Assad a unique opportunity to deepen his understanding of the centuries-old relationship between Lebanon and the Philippines. As he grew into his role, Assad embraced the challenge as both a duty and a privilege, using his position to foster closer ties between the two nations.
Assad’s journey as consul is deeply intertwined with his family’s history in the Philippines. Over a century ago, his ancestors were among 20 Lebanese families whose migration to Australia was interrupted by a typhoon, leading them to settle in the Philippines instead. This twist of fate marked the beginning of a vibrant Lebanese community in the country. These families became integral to Philippine society, excelling in politics, business, and entertainment.
Assad’s work as the honorary consul has highlighted similarities between Lebanon and the Philippines. Both nations have significant diasporas — Lebanon’s global population of nearly 20 million far outnumbers its domestic population of 5 to 6 million.
Similarly, the Philippines relies heavily on the contributions of its overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), who send billions of pesos in remittances annually. This shared reliance on their respective diasporas underscores the resilience and interconnectedness of their people.
Tourism is another shared feature. Lebanon, often referred to as the "Paris of the Middle East," boasts stunning Mediterranean landscapes, historic sites, and the unique ability to ski and swim in the same day.
Meanwhile, the Philippines captivates visitors with its tropical beauty and renowned hospitality. Despite their differences, he said both countries thrive on the natural charm and resourcefulness of their citizens.
While Assad’s consular work has been rewarding, it has not been without its challenges. From assisting Lebanese nationals in the Philippines to organizing cultural events, every task requires careful navigation of cultural and bureaucratic complexities. Yet, these complexities have only deepened Assad’s appreciation for both nations.
One of his most fulfilling endeavors, he said, is focusing on the contributions of Lebanese Filipinos, such as his upcoming dinner featuring Bella Ysmael — who was recently crowned Miss Cosmo Philippines — and celebrating the community’s achievements.
Assad takes pride in the cultural traditions of Lebanon, emphasizing the importance of food, language, and family ties in preserving heritage.
Assad’s own life reflects the duality of his role. Born to a Lebanese father and a mother who primarily spoke Arabic, he grew up fluent in Arabic while embracing Filipino culture.
His daughters have carried on this legacy, moving to Beirut and becoming trilingual in Arabic, French, and English.
Despite having family in both Lebanon and the Philippines, Assad considers the Philippines his home.
"Home is where the heart is," he said, echoing the sentiment of generations of Lebanese Filipinos who found a home in the Philippines.