Press Release

CONSUL GENERAL PROMOTES STRONGER TIES IN CALL ON IOWA SECRETARY OF STATE PATE

Consul General Diano presenting a miniature jeepney token to Secretary of State Pate (Chicago PCG photo)

CHICAGO 26 August 2026- Consul General Melanie Rita B. Diano called on Iowa Secretary of State Paul D. Pate at the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines on 25 August 2026.

The Consul General highlighted opportunities to expand PHL-Iowa cooperation in agriculture, investment, and people-to-people engagement, particularly as the PHL and the U.S. commemorate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. She also thanked Secretary Pate for Iowa’s support for the Filipino community in the state.

Secretary Pate welcomed the Consul General’s initiative and acknowledged the contributions of Asian communities, including Filipinos, to Iowa. He also conveyed his willingness to help foster closer links between the PHL and the state.

Consul General Diano likewise briefed the state official on the upcoming 2027 Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour, scheduled for February 2027, and invited him to participate. Secretary Pate, who noted his interest in scuba diving, welcomed the invitation and looked forward to exploring opportunities to visit the PHL. END

Secretary of State Pate discussing his office’s programs (Chicago PCG photo)

Consul General Diano, joined by Consul Almonguera, posing with Secretary Pate after the meeting (Chicago PCG photo)

Secretary of State Pate showing the Consul General the equestrian portrait of Major General Grenville M. Dodge,

a prominent Iowa Civil War general and U.S. Congressman (Chicago PCG photo)