In his first press engagement in Dubai, Ambrosio Brian F. Enciso III laid out a three-fold agenda focused on faster consular services, deeper Filipino community engagement, and stronger Philippine representation in the UAE, GMA News Online reported.
Enciso, the newly appointed Consul General at the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, said his top priority is improving efficiency and convenience in consular services.
He confirmed ongoing efforts toward digitalization, including the rollout of credit card payments, digital contract verification, expanded appointment slots, shorter waiting times, and courier delivery of documents.
Drawing lessons from Dubai’s fully digital government systems, Enciso said modernization must be coordinated across all Philippine foreign service posts. “It cannot be that Dubai alone moves forward,” he noted in earlier remarks, acknowledging the structural limits within Philippine government systems.
Community Engagement and Media Partnership
Enciso also emphasized purposeful engagement with Filipino organizations and media groups in the UAE. He called on media partners to help disseminate accurate information and assist distressed Filipinos who may not immediately reach government channels.
Dubai is home to an estimated 750,000 documented Filipinos, making it one of the largest overseas Filipino communities globally. Enciso said that in a migration hub of this scale, communication and coordination are critical.
His leadership approach also signals institutional continuity. He acknowledged the cultural diplomacy initiatives of former Consul General Marford Angeles, including transforming the consulate into a gallery space showcasing Filipino art. Enciso expressed intent to sustain and expand these cultural programs.
Diplomatic Context and Regional Significance
A career diplomat since 2003 under the Department of Foreign Affairs, Enciso previously served in Xiamen, Los Angeles, and in senior multilateral roles handling engagements with UNESCO, UNICEF, and World Health Organization.
His background in communications and public information helps explain his strong focus on transparency and media partnership.
Enciso’s agenda suggests gradual but practical improvements in service delivery, supported by digital upgrades and stronger institutional coordination. For Filipino residents, this signals potential reductions in processing delays and expanded access to assistance channels.