Press Release

CONSUL GENERAL MEETS WITH SOUTH DAKOTA SECRETARY OF STATE TO STRENGTHEN BILATERAL AND PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE TIES

Consul General Diano posing with Secretary of State Johnson (Chicago PCG photo)

CHICAGO 13 April 2026- Consul General Melanie Rita B. Diano called on South Dakota Secretary of State Monae Johnson to discuss people-to-people ties at the State Capitol in Pierre, South Dakota on 09 April 2026.

The Consul General conveyed the PHL Govt’s appreciation for South Dakota’s efforts to ensure the well-being of over 3,500 Filipinos and Filipino Americans who have made the state their home, underscoring their meaningful contribution to the state’s social and economic fabric. Secretary of State Johnson acknowledged the Filipino community’s positive impact on the state, citing their strong work ethic and professionalism. She also recalled fond memories of living at Clark Air Base when her father was stationed there.

Consul General Diano apprised Secretary Johnson of the annual VIP Tour and extended an invitation for her to join the upcoming iteration scheduled for July 2026. She likewise briefed the Secretary of State on the upcoming Business Mission to the PHL, highlighting it as an initiative aimed at further deepening PHL–U.S. relations.

Secretary Johnson expressed strong interest in participating in a future iteration of the VIP Tour, noting her desire to witness developments in the PHL since her last visit. She also pledged support in promoting the Business Mission among South Dakota businesses. END

Secretary of State Johnson discussing her office’s constitutional tasks (Chicago PCG photo)

Secretary of State Johnson showing some memorabilia and family photos (Chicago PCG photo)