BUSINESSMAN...

got good communication and technology. We can install a radar system to monitor the Jolo and Zamboanga channel and also know what things should be monitored above the sea," he added.

When asked how the Sultanate of Sulu chooses a Datu, Princess Jazer Kiram, the daughter of His Royal Highness (HRH) Sultan Phugdalon Kiram II, explained that the title of Datu is given to a person not specifically from Sulu but who has helped the Sultanate of Sulu in general. Ambassador Lima is known for his advocacy of Sulu- China relations which also promotes the Sultanate of Sulu.

Princess Kiram said Lima has helped a lot in Mindanao and has businesses operating in General Santos City where there are many Tausug wherein those displaced in Sulu transferred to General Santos.

"Then he has done a lot in the name of the Sultanate of Sulu, more specifically with his advocacy on Sulu- China relations," Princess Kiram said.

She said that they will expect the Ambassador to continue what he is doing and to bring some development to Sulu.

Ambassador Lima was given the title Datu Al Jabar because “Al Jabar” meant “Restorer” and the sultanate needs someone to bring back the glory days of Sulu.

There is a long history between prehistoric Philippines and China, especially on trade and diplomacy. Princess Kiram said it is only recently that Sulu is known to be a dangerous place.

William Lima was born on June 28, 1956 to John and Juana Lima in Jolo, Sulu. He was the 2nd Datu to be conferred the title under the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo.