The new Ambassador of South Africa to the Philippines Agnes Nyamande-Pitso on Tuesday formally presented her credentials to President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III in ceremonies in Malacañang.

Speaking in behalf of South African President Jacob Zuma, Nyamande-Pitso expressed confidence that under the leadership of President Aquino, the Philippines will prosper and continue to meet the challenges of development in the quest for a better life for all in a more peaceful world.

The ambassador stated that the warm relations, together with the historical ties that bind the Philippines and South Africa together dating back some 150 years, have made them firm partners with the same values and ideals.

"I look forward to working with the Philippines to maintain and deepen the friendly bilateral relations that exist between our two countries, with a scope for energizing these through a more structured bilateral interaction, high-level visits as well as the finalization of a number of proposed bilateral agreements," Nyamande–Pitso said in an official statement.

Prior to her posting to the Philippines, Nyamande-Pitso was South Africa’s Consul-General to the United Arab Emirates, based in Dubai from 2005 – 2009.

Before joining the diplomatic service she was a teacher and lecturer at a number of university’s in Southern Africa.

She was previously employed by Anglo American Corporation, the Independent Development Trust as well as managing director of a trading company.

After presenting her credentials to the President, the South African ambassador and her staff proceeded to Rizal Park where they laid a wreath at the monument of national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal.