Manila, Aug. 10 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Silver Distinction, on outgoing French Ambassador Marie Fontanel for her role in elevating the Philippines-France relations during her farewell call in Malacanang.

The award recognized Fontanel's contributions to strengthening Philippine-French relations, particularly in defense and maritime security cooperation.

The citation credited Fontanel with helping advance defense cooperation that culminated in the signing of the Philippines-France Status of Visiting Forces Agreement in March 2026.

It also cited France's support for a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific and the Philippines' maritim...