FOR German Honorary Consul in Cebu, Dr. Franz Seidenschwarz, the decade that he has been efficiently handling the Consulate is not totally, culturally new to him. He has been in Cebu since 1987, and loving it too!

Before his assignment at the Consulate, Dr. Franz was a consultant and botany professor at the University of San Carlos. In this connection, he subsequently published a book titled “Plant World of the Philippines,” which is based on scientific studies and research.

With such admirable dedication to duty, Dr. Franz was the recipient of these proud words of praise from Dr. Gordon Kricke, Ambassador of Germany to the Philippines. “There are probably about 4,000 citizens in Cebu, and to offer them consular support is one of the main tasks of the consulate.” The ambassador further added that Cebu is an important trade partner of Germany, observing the many German businesses here.

This memorable occasion marked the 10th year of German friendship and support via the Consulate. Among the prominent guests were three career consuls representing their countries: Wonjae Uhm of Korea; Hiroshi Watanabe of Japan and Jia Li of China.

The successful event was made more warm and meaningful with the familiar faces of Dr. Franz’s family: Cebuana wife Elizabeth and son Dr. Franz Christian and Filipina better-half, Melanie, who were both medical students here.

From this corner, we would like to congratulate Dr. Franz for this historic decade, which will surely move successfully forward to 20 and beyond! Toasts!