Ambassador's Pinoy chauffeur honored with British Empire Medal

Filipino driver Roland Quitevis, who had worked at the British Embassy for 33 years and had served as the official driver to eight British Ambassadors to the Philippines, was awarded the British Empire Medal, the embassy announced in a social media post.

"I am delighted to announce that Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II has honoured Mr Roland Quitevis with the British Empire Medal for his services to UK-Philippine Relations," wrote Ambassador Daniel Pruce. "This is a thoroughly well-deserved recognition of Roland's long service at the Embassy, mostly spent as the Ambassador's driver."

The British Empire Medal is awarded for meritorious civil or military service worthy of recognition by the Crown.

In a short profile written by Quitevis himself, the Filipino recounted how he came to Manila from Ilocos Sur at age 22, and found a job as a messenger at the British Embassy.

"After I was regularized, I obtained the necessary skills and was promoted to become the official driver of the Ambassador," wrote Quitevis. "I remember being so grateful for the opportunity, which is why I have always loved every single day of it – come monsoon rains, heavy Manila traffic and day-to-day encounters with British Embassy staff in action."

Quitevis took two comprehensive driving courses in the United Kingdom, in 1999 and in 2013. The courses gave the Filipino the skills to act in situations that demanded urgent response, such as making precautionary checks that ensured that the embassy vehicle was safe to use and the ability to keep the ambassador away from harm in critical conditions.

The Filipino also had the honor to drive for some members of the Royal family: during Prince Andrew, the Duke of York's three visits, during the two visits by Princess Anne, and a visit by Prince Charles.

"For me, every moment with all the Ambassadors has been unforgettable, as they have treated me like family and always with utmost respect," said Quitevis. "I felt so grateful when I was awarded the Service Recognition Award for excellent service rendered by Ambassador Stephen Lillie.

"But the defining moment that I will always treasure was when Ambassador Daniel Pruce presented me the opportunity of receiving the Honorary British Empire Medal (BEM)." — DVM, GMA News