Al Francis Bichara

Who is Al Francis Bichara?

Al Francis C. Bichara is a Filipino politician.

A civil engineer by profession, Bichara's political career began when he served as mayor of Ligao City from 1986 to 1992. In 1992, Bichara was elected to the House of Representatives, representing the 3rd District of Albay. After one term in the House, Bichara was elected governor of Albay in 1995. He was re-elected as governor in 1998 and 2001.

After the expiration of his third consecutive term as governor in 2004, Bichara was appointed Ambassador to Lebanon by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The 2006 Lebanon War broke out during his tenure as Ambassador, and he drew attention when he threatened to halt the evacuation of Filipinos in Lebanon due to the lack of funds.

In 2007, Bichara returned to the House of Representatives, this time winning election as the Representative from the 2nd District of Albay. He is currently a member of the Nactionalista Party.