NAGA CITY—A scan of the Facebook account of outgoing US Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Kenney showed thousands of mostly Filipino “friends.”

These friends expressed their gratitude to the American ambassador, who is now preparing to leave her post following the nomination of African-American Harry K. Thomas as Washington’s new ambassador to Manila.

“You’ve done a great job, Madam. You have become an inspiration to a lot of women,” said one friend.

“We are so grateful that a part of your life was spent here in the Philippines.”

Some comments expressed sadness over the end of Kenney’s stint in Manila.

“If it’s not out of protocol, we would ask His Excellency President Obama and Secretary Clinton not to transfer you anywhere. Filipinos truly love you, Madam Ambassador,” said another friend.

Heartbroken

In her Facebook account status message, Kenney said she was “heartbroken to think of leaving the Philippines.”

She said, however, she knew it was time for her to return to be with her family.

Kenney called on her friends to help her not to be sad but to enjoy and savor her remaining months “in this lovely country.”

The outgoing US ambassador, who became the first woman US ambassador in 2006, has been a prolific Facebook user.

In one of her notes she shared the things she loved most about the Philippines. These included orchids, Manila Bay sunsets, coconut bread, fresh mangoes, mango “smoothies,” basketball and snorkeling.

TV addict

She also posted in her Facebook account her fondness for watching the local installment of the TV program “Singing Bee.”

Kenney said she liked the local basketball leagues in the country, especially the Philippine Basketball Association and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.

“Wish you luck in your future endeavors, Madam. You will forever be in our (Filipinos) hearts. We’ll definitely be missing you in all UAAP and PBA games. Godspeed,” said one of her friends.

Best loved

Although Kenney will not yet leave her post for at least months, as her replacement will still undergo a confirmation process, many of her Facebook friends have already been showering her praises.

“Quite sad to hear that you’re leaving us soon, Madam. Even if we’ve never met, I consider you to be a dear friend, and will never be forgotten,” said one friend.

“You have done so much to improve US-RP relations that I feel it would be mutually advantageous to keep you on,” said another.

“Ambassador Thomas has enormous shoes to fill. Genuine friendship and fond memories will forever be etched in our hearts. You are the one and only rockstar US ambassador we’ve ever known.”

“Thank you for bringing a more ‘personal’ touch to your job. It has successfully given the US a ‘human face,’” said another friend. Jonas Cabiles Soltes, Inquirer Southern Luzon