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PHL EMBASSY CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS WITH  FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN SOUTH AFRICA

18 December 2014 - As part of its cultural diplomacy activities, the Philippine Embassy in Pretoria held a Christmas party on November 30 at the Chancery for members of the Filipino community in southern Africa and to share and promote Filipino cultural traditions with the Filipino community and local citizens of South Africa.


A mass was celebrated at the beginning of the day’s festivities, officiated by Filipino priests – Fr. Edgar Vizcara and Fr. Alex Muana.

Philippine Ambassador to South Africa Joseph Gerard B. Angeles took the occasion to introduce himself in a first-time gathering of the Filipino community hosted by the Embassy since his arrival in August this year. He gave a presentation to the community on the recent economic achievements of the Philippines, including increased investments in public infrastructure, flourishing industries such as business process outsourcing (BPO), electronics, tourism, real estate, manufacturing, skills development, and the Philippines’ attainment of investment-grade level from renowned ratings agencies. He likewise exhorted the Filipino community to participate in the Philippines’ thriving democracy through the overseas voters registration.

Traditional Filipino fare served by the Embassy and contributed by the Filipino community did not fail to satisfy the guests, with such an array as: dinuguan at puto, caldereta, inihaw na liempo, inihaw na isda, embutido, bopis, pan de sal, and gulaman, among others.

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PHL EMBASSY JOINS FILIPINO ASSOCIATION IN PALMERSTON NORTH, NEW ZEALAND

23 December 2014 - Upon the invitation of the Philippine Central Association (PCA) of New Zealand, Philippine Minister and Consul General Arlene Gonzales-Macaisa served as the inducting officer for the new set of PCA officers on December 14 in Palmerston North, New Zealand. 

The newly inducted PCA officers for 2015 are Chairman Angel Carambas; Vice Chairman Dominic Lomiwes; Secretary Tony Villanueva; Treasurer Sandro Mercado; Cultural Executive Ma. Lizette Gallaza; Social Executive John Abais; and Youth and Sports Chairpersons Dale Enriquez and Larry Boyd.

In her remarks, Consul Gonzales-Macaisa observed that although members of the PCA have built new lives in New Zealand, they still maintain their sense of being Filipino as they take on the responsibilities of being part of the PCA. Such an organization mirrors the inherent values that define the Filipino wherever they may be. She shared the good news regarding the Philippine economy and the fruits of good governance.

She further encouraged the members of the PCA and the Filipino community in Palmerston North to register as overseas voters and, for those who have already acquired New Zealand citizenship, to apply for reacquisition of Philippine citizenship. She reminded the Filipino community members that they are fortunate to be living in New Zealand, a country which embraces its multicultural society and one which allows multiple citizenships. Consul General Gonzales-Macaisa concluded her remarks by wishing everyone “Maligayang Pasko at Manigong BagongTaon.”

The induction and Christmas party prepared by PCA showcased the cultural pride of the association. Children of all ages were encouraged to participate in the program with various cultural dances. The Filipino Christmas spirit permeated the air with songs and musical presentations from various groups including the PCA Rondalla Group.The PCA’s guest speaker, Palmerston North Member of Parliament (MP) Iain Lees-Galloway, commended the PCA and the Filipino community of Palmerston North for their generosity of spirit and their willingness to adapt to New Zealand’s multicultural society.He commended the Filipino community of Palmerston North for their cultural enthusiasm and for keeping Filipino traditions thriving amongst the youth of the community. MP Lees-Galloway also assured them that his office is open to the Filipino community and encouraged the Filipinos to bring their concerns to his attention. He likewise ended his remarks with a Christmas greeting.