On Friendship And Moral Victories

Former Israeli Ambassador Ephraim Ben Matityau speaks to Marga Manlapig about the continuing friendship between his country and the Philippines

- Marga Manlapig

You’re here early!” Ephraim “Effie” Ben Matityau exclaims as he enters the room where his interview is to take place. Though early, he is ready: all dressed up and dapper in a cream-coloured barong Tagalog with a big smile on his friendly face. While very professional, he cannot help but dote over four-month-old Michael, his first grandson, who is visiting from Germany with his family.

Indeed, as he nears the end of tour of duty, the Israel Ambassador exudes a relaxed aura and a jovial vitality—qualities that endeared him to many people during his tenure in the Philippines. But he is quick to say that warmth begets warmth, and that his earliest impressions of the Filipino people have helped mould his own cordiality towards them.

“It was during my second week in the country when I met a great mentor of mine, a senior diplomat,” he recalls. “She told me, ‘Effie, remember: the Philippines is founded on four pillars: food; dance, as everybody is on the move in this country; song, seeing how every Filipino is a singer; and— most importantly—taking pictures. You’re in the selfie capital of the world!’” With a grin, he adds that he came back to her with his own discovery. “I told her that she forgot the central pillar: the Filipinos’ hospitality and smiles.”

This keen sense of friendliness has left a lasting impression on Ben Matityau, one that he feels will linger with him long after he leaves the country.

“You meet a Filipino in the morning, and by evening, you get invited to his wedding!” he laughs as he describes how friendly we are. “It’s so easy to integrate one’s self into this country’s society; it’s amazing. It was, for me, a lesson in friendship.”