YB Dato' Seri Utama Dr. Rais Yatim visited the Republic of the Philippines from 7 to 8 May 2008. This was his first official visit as the Minister of Foreign Affairs after he was appointed to the said post earlier this year. He was accompanied by his wife, Datin Seri Masnah Rais. 
During his short stay in Manila, he managed to pay a courtesy call on Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo in Malacanang Palace. He also had a good meeting and discussion with his counterpart, the Honourable Alberto Romulo, Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
Malaysian citizens in Manila were very fortunate to have an opportunity to meet YB Minister of Foreign Affairs in person when he and YBhg. Datin Seri attended the dinner organised by the Embassy of Malaysia at "Rumah Malaysia" on 7 May 2008. He was also very gracious to spend some time despite his tight schedule to visit the Embassy of Malaysia and had a hi-tea with the HBS and LRS.
