During the visit, the Ambassador toured the Eshtaol Nursery and visited the Israel-Philippine Friendship Grove, including its restored commemorative plaque in the Eshtaol recognition centre.
The Ambassador was introduced to KKL-JNF’s work in forestry, land development, and sustainability, and received an overview of the organization’s role in strengthening relations between the two countries through the exchange of knowledge and technologies.
The visit highlighted a significant historical chapter in Israel–Philippines relations. The Israel–Philippines Friendship Grove was planted in the early 1970s and serves as a lasting symbol of friendship and diplomatic ties between the two nations. As part of emphasizing the grove’s significance, KKL-JNF uncovered archival materials, including rare documentation from the grove's inauguration ceremony in 1972.
Unfortunately, during the wildfires of May 2025, the forest was severely damaged and the original commemorative stone plaque had been shattered. Among the rubble, a piece of the stone was found bearing the dedication of the Friendship forest in honour of Dr. José P. Rizal. The Ambassador was very moved by the preservation of a piece of the original plaque, which survived the fire and retained its powerful engraved message.
KKL-JNF emphasized that the visit reflects the organization’s continued commitment to preserving nature and historical memory and promoting values of international solidarity and responsibility.
The visit follows recent meetings between KKL-JNF leadership and representatives of the Philippine Embassy, aimed at deepening bilateral relations and exploring future cooperation across KKL-JNF’s areas of activity.
Yuval Yenni, CFO and Acting CDO at KKL-JNF, said: “I commend the Ambassador's important visit in Israel. At KKL-JNF, we see the Ambassador and her team as partners in the values that guide Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund. Today’s visit is a profound expression of the shared morals and historical bond between our peoples. KKL-JNF views the fostering of friendship and collaboration between nations within its areas of responsibility, as an integral part of its mission as an organization. We have agreed to work toward continued fruitful cooperation between our organizations."
The Philippine Ambassador to Israel, Aileen S. Mendiola, was deeply moved to see the historic plaque and expressed her appreciation for the recognition, stating: “I had been looking forward to this visit, so thank you very much for making it possible and for hosting me. When I hear about all of KKL-JNF’s work, I believe we can bring people from our country here to learn from you.”