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April — June 2014 ROMAN FORUM

ROMAN FORUM ROMAN FORUM ROMAN FORUM THE OFFICIAL QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER OF THE PHILIPPINE EMBASSY, ROME

April - June 2014; Volume 3, Issue 2

(Seguire i passi dei Filippino eroici, verso un cambiamento esteso e duraturo)

(Following the footsteps of great Filipinos, toward permanent and widespread change)

2 ROMAN FORUM April — June 2014

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINESMESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

April — June 2014 ROMAN FORUM 3

MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINESMESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES


MESSAGE FROM THE SECRETARY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE PHILIPPINESMESSAGE FROM THE SECRETARY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE PHILIPPINES


MESSAGE FROM THE AMBASSADOR OF THE PHILIPPINESMESSAGE FROM THE AMBASSADOR OF THE PHILIPPINES

INDEPENDENCE DAY MESSAGE TO THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY OF

H.E. VIRGILIO A. REYES, JR. Philippine Ambassador to Italy

Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan sa ating lahat, sa ating pagdiriwang ng ika-Isang Daan at Labing Anim na Anibersaryo ng

Proklamasyon ng ating Kalayaan.

This year, we commemorate the 116th year anniversary of our country’s Independence with the theme “KALAYAAN 2014: PAGSUNOD SA YAPAK NG MGA DAKILANG PILIPINO, TUNGO SA MALAWAKAN AT PERMANENTENG PAGBABAGO”

I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to all Filipinos, whether here or in other corners of the

globe, on the celebration of the 116th Anniversary of the Proclamation of our Independence.

“Kalayaan 2014: Pagsunod sa Yapak ng mga Dakilang Pilipino, Tungo sa Malawakan at Permanenteng Pagbabago,” this year’s Independence Day theme, reminds us that, indeed, freedom is not bestowed. It is something that we must achieve and make permanent.

Sa ngayon, mahigit Sampung Milyong OFWs sa iba’t-ibang panig ng mundo ang tumutulong sa ekonomiya ng bansang

kanilang kinalalagyan, habang patuloy na itinataguyod ang kanilang pamilya at mga kababayan sa Pilipinas.

Filipino workers continue to blaze a trail of professional and economic success in almost every country and have become an important pillar in the economic security of their loved ones back home and the economic stability and progress of the Philip-pines.

In Italy, some 190,000 Filipinos found a second home as indispensable members of the Italian workforce and society. The

Filipinos in Italy remain one of the most loved and most integrated in Italy. Filipino workers remain well treated by their Italian employers who recognize their work ethic, competence and industry.

Malayo man sa kani-kanilang mga pamilya at kinalakihang bansa, our overseas workers’ love for their homeland and

their dedication to their families are proud values that form unbreakable bonds to our countrymen back home.

Going into the last two years of the Aquino Administration, let us thank the President for his policies that made the Philip-pines undergo impressive economic growth. Let us thus support the President to ensure that our country’s growth is that of an “inclusive growth,” a growth that will permeate the households of all Filipinos; a growth that will be felt and appreciated by our kababayans, even, in fact most specially, by the poorest among us.

Malinaw na ang bawat isa sa atin ay may mahalagang papel sa pagpapalawig ng pag-unlad sa ating bansa. Tayong

lahat ay hinihikayat na ipagpatuloy ang pagtutulungan tungo sa isang mas maunlad na Pilipinas... na lahat ng Pilipino, maging ang mga mahihirap, ay aktwal na mararanasan ang pagbuti ng kanilang buhay. Ito ang ibig sabihin ng “malawakang kaun-laran”, isang pag-unlad na may kontribusyon ang bawat Pilipino, at dama ang mabuting epekto ng bawat Pilipino.

I also wish to encourage our kababayans to continue to strive harder. Make time and commit yourselves to learn the Ital-

ian language, for it is a crucial factor in your mobility and development in Italy.

Develop your skills. Support one another. Integrate in the Italian society, without forgetting where you and/or your par-ents came from.

I have seen and met some youth and second-generation Filipinos in Italy who are excelling in school and are striving

hard to be lawyers, doctors, teachers, etc. I applaud you and your parents. You are truly an example to follow, and should serve as an inspiration to other Filipino families in Italy.

As a migrant community in Italy, we are much appreciated and trusted. As a people, we are very capable and committed.

We should utilize and optimize these factors for the betterment of us all here in Italy.

Makakaasa kayo sa patuloy na suporta at pakikipagtulungan ng Embassy sa lahat ng Pilipino sa Italya. Kayo’y katu-wang namin sa ating layuning pangalagaan at protektahan ang interes ng Pilipinas at sambayanang Pilipino.

Ang Philippine Embassy ay patuloy na makikipagugnayan sa inyo, at mga ahensya ng Italian government, upang

mapangalagaan ang inyong kapakanan.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang lahing Pilipino! VIRGILIO A. REYES, JR.


116TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PROCLAMATION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE116TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PROCLAMATION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE

The Philippine Embassy in Rome, together with the

Filipino community, commenced the month-long

festivities to commemorate the 116th Anniversary of the

Declaration of Philippine Independence.

The celebration started with the Filipino Community’s annu-

al Santacruzan procession on 25 May. The Santacruzan,

organized by the Sentro Pilipino Chaplaincy, commenced

from the Basilica di Santa Pudenziana (home base of the Fil-

ipino Parish community in Rome) and wound its way to the

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

The Santacruzan procession, which marks the founding of the Holy Cross by St. Helena, was graced by

the participation of the Filipino youth wearing Filipiniana attire, from the various religious communities

all over Rome.

The event culminated with a Mass at the Santa Maria Maggiore where Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes,

Jr. and Ambassador Mercedes Tuason, Philippine envoy to the Holy See, were both in attendance.

On 28 May, the Embassy observed the "Pambansang Araw ng

Watawat" (National Flag Day) at the Embassy grounds with the sing-

ing of the Philippine national anthem and the recitation of the

"Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas".

DFA Assistant Secretary for Policy Henry S. Bensurto was

the special guest of the Embassy during the occasion.

On 01 June, the Independence

Day Thanksgiving Mass was

held at the historic center in the

Basilica di Santa Pudenziana,

where the Sentro Pilipino

Chaplaincy is based.

Filipino Community and Phl Embassy in Rome Commence Month-Long

Celebration for 116th Anniversary of PH Independence

Santacruzan photos courtesy of Ms. Yolly Abarintos



On 08 June, the Philippine Embassy in Rome joined the Filipino community in the

celebration of the 116th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence

through a Wreath-Laying Ceremony before the statue of our national hero, Dr. Jose

Rizal, and an Independence Day Cultural Celebration organized by the Philippine

Independence Day Association (PIDA).

Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. and the entire Philippine

Embassy staff led the wreath-laying ceremony at Piazzale Manila,

and the opening of the whole-day celebration at Piazza Ankara.

Early in the morning of 08 June, the Ambassador led the Knights of

Rizal, Guardians, Filipino councilors in Rome, Embassy staff and

the Filipino community in laying a floral wreath at the shrine of our

national hero at Piazzale Manila. It was also an advance birthday

tribute to Dr. Jose Rizal’s 153rd birth anniversary on 19 June.

“Throughout his life, Dr. Rizal dedicated himself, his aspirations, his talents and his

sacrifices for the love of country. The teachings of Dr. Rizal on freedom, love for

country, and the importance of education and the youth are as relevant today as they

were when he was alive,” remarked the Ambassador as the Filipino community paid

tribute to their national hero.

FILCOM IN ROME FETES 116TH ANNIVERSARY

OF THE PROCLAMATION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE



Immediately thereafter, at the Piazza Ankara, and after the Parade of Evolution of Philippine Flags

and the Ecumenical Invocation, the Ambassador formally declared the opening of the Filipino

community’s celebration of Philippine independence to the release of peace doves and balloons.

In line with this year’s theme, “Kalayaan 2014: Pagsunod sa Yapak ng mga Dakilang Pilipino,

Tungo sa Malawakan at Permanenteng Pagbabago” (following the footsteps of great filipinos,

toward permanent and widespread change), the Ambassador emphasized in his message that each

Filipino has a role to play in sustaining the impressive economic growth that the Philippines is now

experiencing.

“Malinaw na ang bawat isa sa atin ay may mahalagang papel sa pagpapalawig ng pag-unlad sa

ating bansa. Tayong lahat ay hinihikayat na ipagpatuloy ang pagtutulungan tungo sa isang mas

maunlad na Pilipinas... na lahat ng Pilipino, maging ang mga mahihirap, ay aktwal na mararanasan

ang pagbuti ng kanilang buhay. Ito ang ibig sabihin ng ‘malawakang kaunlaran’, isang pag-unlad

na may kontribusyon ang bawat Pilipino, at dama ang mabuting epekto ng bawat Pilipino,” said the

Ambassador.


The morning program of the community festivities highlighted Filipino culture, by showcasing the

Filipino rituals and traditions such as the Tausug “Pangalay” and the Bulakenyo “Balagtasan”. It

also featured reading of “Mi Ultimo Adios” by Andrea Bosca, Italian actor and performer.

Performers from the Filipino community in Rome and beyond gave the audience the following

special cultural numbers:

Pangalay (a Tausug classic dance)

Balagtasan (the classical debate format of the Philippines)

“Ako ay Pilipino” Song

Monologue of an excerpt from the Noli Me Tangere written by Dr. Jose Rizal

Dance interpretation of the “Pag-Ibig sa Tinubuang Lupa” Poem written by Gat Andres Bonifacio

Rendition of the “Mi Ultimo Adios”, Dr. Rizal’s last poem, by Italian actor Andrea Bosca

“Isang Lahi” Song

“Kalayaan” Rap

Philippine Folksongs and Tinikling classical dance

Kali/Arnis Original Filipino Martial Arts Exhibition

Banga Dance (classical folkdance of the Kalinga)

Filipino artisans in Italy were likewise featured in a

special booth which contained, floral arrangements

(by Efren Dordas), designer’s cake (by Jonima

Acevedo), and Jose Rizal mementos (by the

Knights of Rizal Rome Chapter) all showcasing the

distinct Filipino artistic, design and culinary skills.

The works of Italian photographer Stefano Romano

were also displayed in the booth depicting the

variegated images of Filipinos in Italy.


10 ROMAN FORUM April — June


The afternoon program of the community celebration consisted of a variety show which featured

various local talents from the Filipino community. PIDA also brought in artist Enchong Dee to pro-

vide entertainment to excited community members from different parts of Italy.

The whole-day event, which remained open to the general public for free, attracted more than 5,000

Filipinos from all over Italy.


MULTILATERAL DIPLOMACYMULTILATERAL DIPLOMACY

28 April 2014 – In her role as the external auditor of FAO, COA Chairperson Grace Pulido-Tan paid a courtesy call to Director General Graziano Da Silva at the Director General’s Office on 28 April. She was accompanied by the Philippine Permanent Representative to FAO, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. and Agricultural Atta-ché Lupiño Lazaro, Jr. The meeting discussed the terms, roles and responsibilities of COA’s external audit service to FAO. Tan con-veyed appreciation to FAO for its support and confidence on the posting of COA and guaranteed that COA will continue to exert best efforts to provide accurate and balanced outputs. Tan also expressed gratitude on the recent visit to the Philippines of Graziano Da Silva on 09 March 2014 to the Philippines to meet with the FAO partners in the country and for the valuable assistance extended to-wards the rehabilitation of the catastrophic damages made by super Typhoon Haiyan (locally known as Yolan-da). Director General Da Silva remarked that he had been accompanied by Ambassador Reyes during this visit. Da Silva called FAO’s assistance to the damages a 3-R approach: 1. Bringing Relief, 2. Recovering process, and 3. Resilience and conveyed that they are currently working on the assistance to farmers in harvesting and providing better seeds, and it is expected that the farmers will harvest at least 30 to 40 per cent more than before. Da Silva antici-pated that FAO can buy part of this production and use the new seeds to replant for other areas. It is considered to be an upgrade on the production of rice and support to the farming of rice. Graziano Da Silva concluded by wishing the best for COA and its leadership, while expressing continued full support and confidence the man-date and capacity of COA as the FAO External Auditor.

PHILIPPINE COA HEAD CALLS ON FAO DG GRAZIANO DA SILVA

COA Chairperson Grace Pulido-Tan and Philippine Permanent Representative, to FAO, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. at the Office of FAO Director General José Graziano Da Silva.

AMBASSADOR REYES GUESTS AT IFAD’S 2014 GLOBAL FORUM ON REMITTANCES

IN BANGKOK, THAILAND

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) successfully organized the 2014 edition of the Global Forum on Remittances (GFR) held in Bangkok, Thailand on 12-14 May 2014. In his speech during the forum, Ambassador Reyes discussed how remittances can empower Philippine rural communities. The Embassy, through the Ambassador, reiterated its commitment to cooperate with IFAD in to achieve higher incomes and improve food security by scaling-up the impact of remittances for the development of rural economies. Ambassador Reyes related how the Embassy has conducted various investment aware-ness forums which aim to put the overseas Filipinos’ remittance money to more benefi-cial use. He said that most of our overseas Filipinos in Italy have relatives not in the urban areas of Metro Manila, but in the provinces and towns where our overseas Filipinos have originated. Thus, Philippine provinces such as Batangas, Quezon, Min-doro, Laguna, Cavite, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Pangasinan, La Union, Isabela and Bu-lacan are the primary beneficiaries of Filipino remittances from Italy. Ambassador Reyes also said that the Philippine Embassy shall continue to further promote the financial literacy of Filipinos in Italy so that they understand their options. “We have been con-stantly cooperating with the Philippine financial services sector (with presence in Italy) to develop more attractive and efficient tools specifically targeted at Filipino migrant workers and their families,” said the Ambassador. The Ambassador said that the Philippines is a model of synergy between the government, IFAD and civil society in empowering our rural commu-nities to achieve higher incomes and improve food security by scaling-up the impact of remittances.



At the invitation of Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr., Dr. Stefano de Caro, Director General of the International Centre for

the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM), conducted an official visit to the Philippines on

12-18 May 2014.

Dr. de Caro paid a courtesy call on Foreign Affairs

Undersecretary for Special and Ocean Concerns Ra-

fael E. Seguis on May 13 to discuss issues related to

the restoration of Philippine heritage sites, most espe-

cially those that were damaged during the recent ca-

lamities such as the earthquake in Bohol and Ty-

phoon Yolanda (Haiyan).

Undersecretary Seguis conveyed the Philippines’

utmost appreciation for ICCROM’s assistance in the

aftermath of such calamities.

Dr. De Caro was accompanied during the call by

NCCA Chairperson Felipe M. De Leon whose

agency hosted the former’s visit to the Philippines.

Dr. De Caro and Chairperson De Leon thereafter

participated in a roundtable discussion with DFA officials, namely Mr. Jose Maria A. Carino, Head of the Cultural Diplomacy

Unit; UNESCO National Commission Secretary General Virgina A. Miralao;, European Affairs Director Bernadette Therese

C. Fernandez; and Strategic Planning and Policy Coordination Director Rosario P. Lemque. Office of United Nations and Oth-

er International Organizations Director Gonaranao B. Musor moderated the discussion

From May 14 to 15, Dr. de Caro visited Vigan to see efforts of the Philippines to better preserve and maintain our heritage

sites in the country.

On May 16 to 17,

Dr. de Caro together

with Ambassador

Reyes visited Bohol

to assess the situa-

tion and damage

caused by the earth-

quake which hit the

area in October last

year, identify imme-

diate needs and

emergency safe-

guarding measures,

as well as medium-

term interventions

needed for rehabili-

tation and recovery.

Prior to Dr. De Caro’s visit, a team comprised of specialists from ICCROM, the National Commission on Culture and the Arts

(NCCA), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the International Council on

Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) went to Manila and Central Visayas from December 2 to 12 last year to assess the situation

and damage caused by the natural disasters which hit the Philippines last year such as typhoon Yolanda and the Bohol earth-

quake.

ICCROM is Rome-based inter-governmental organization dedicated to the conservation of cultural heritage, including monu-

ments and sites.

The Philippines, as a member State, has been and will be the beneficiary of ICCROM restoration projects and training pro-

grams, including advice and support for the cultural property recently damaged by earthquakes in Bohol and Cebu and by the

typhoons affecting Samar, Leyte and Iloilo.

(Photo courtesy of the Department of Foreign Affairs)

HEAD OF ICCROM DR. DE CARO VISITS THE PHILIPPINES




Italy’s “Centro Studi Internazionali” (Center for International

Studies, or CeSI), in cooperation with the Philippine Embas-

sy, successfully organized a Forum entitled “Le Relazioni Ita-

lia-Filippine: Una Prospettiva Marittima” (Philippine-Italian

Relations: A Maritime Perspective) on 28 May 2014 at the

Sala delle Bandiere of the European Parliament Building in

Rome.

The forum, moderated by CeSI president Prof.

Andrea Margelletti, featured the following re-

source persons to highlight the need for further

strengthening maritime cooperation between the

Philippines and Italy:

Senator Pier Ferdinando Casini, Chair of the Italy’s Senate Foreign Relations Committee;

Ambassador Andrea Perugini, Deputy Director General (Assistant Secretary) of the Italian Ministry of

Foreign Affairs for the Countries of Asia and Oceania;

DFA Assistant Secretary Henry S. Bensurto, Secretary General of the West Philippine Sea Center;

and

Atty. Giuseppe Loffreda, Maritime Law Expert.

In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. said that the Filipino people are his-

torically a seafaring people. Being an archipelago, he said the sea plays a vital role in the cul-

tural, political and economic life of all Filipinos since time immemorial.

“The sea is ingrained in the genetic makeup of the Filipino. Even today, in modern times, more

than one-third of the seafarers/seamen worldwide are Filipinos. Such is our bond to the sea, and

necessarily, to the laws of the sea,” said the Ambassor

Ambassador Reyes further said that the initiation of Arbitral Proceedings against China on its nine-dash line

theory is an operationalization of President Aquino’s policy for a peaceful and rules-based resolution of dis-

putes in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in accordance with international law, specifically the 1982 United

Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

While the Philippines has proceeded with the legal track, Ambassador Reyes said the Philippines continuous

to exert all efforts to move forward and enhance its relations with China on the basis of mutual respect.

During the forum, Senator Casini stressed the importance of complying with international mar-

itime laws to be able to avoid doubts on the interpretation of their application and that they may

be respected by all countries.

Senator Casini said this is particularly important in the light of growing tensions in the Far East

where there is a claim on jurisdiction over water territories, which has impact on the liberty of

navigation and commerce, i.e. fishing in particular.

He said the current regional instability that involves several countries like China, Philippines, Japan and Vi-

etnam shall have to be resolved respecting international law and within the principle of peaceful collabora-

tion among each country involved.

EMBASSY SUPPORTS SUCCESSFUL FORUM ON

“PHILIPPINE-ITALIAN RELATIONS: A MARITIME PERSPECTIVE”




Ambassador Perugini said Italy and the Philippines are both concerned about security of the

seas. He notes that the European Union has issued a declaration wherein the EU enjoins China

and other countries to resolve the problem in the WPS peacefully.

Ambassador Perugini praised the maritime delimitation agreement reached by the Philippines

and Indonesia and said that it could serve as a model for others. “This means that the tension in

this area is not just one country against all the others but also the other countries involved among themselves,”

said Ambassador Perugini.

Atty. Bensurto narrated the history and cause of tension/controversy in the WPS or South Chi-

na Sea. He also distinguished the different areas of sovereignity over the seas from the land

based on the UNCLOS.

While explaining the Philippine legal position before the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal, Atty.

Bensurto stessed that a peaceful resolution of collaboration may be reached as evidenced in the

maritime delimitation agreement between the Philippines and Indonesia.

Atty. Loffreda described how Filipino seafarers are preferred by Italian shipping complies to

employed in Italian ships. He said that Italian flagships’ crews are composed of 80% foreign-

ers, and that 35% of the ships’ seafarers are Filipinos. He said that Italy itself has opened sea-

farers’ training schools in the Philippines.

The Forum was organized by CeSI in consultation

with the Italian Ministries of Foreign Affairs and

Defense.

Representatives from the ASEAN Committee in

Rome, the Italian Defense and Foreign Ministries,

Italian political science students, and public at large

attended the forum.

On 03 June 2014, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. delivered the Philippine statement at

the Annual Session of the Executive Board of the United Nations World Food Program

(WFP).

Ambassador Reyes said the Philippines welcomes the WFP’s development and funding of

resilience efforts, including building resilience through asset creation, and the innovations

being introduced and developed such as the “FoodSecure” or Food Security Climate Resili-

ence facility.

“We support the campaign to give prominence to food security, nutrition and sustainable agriculture in the Post-2015 devel-

opment agenda and in pursuing the Zero Hunger Challenge,” said Ambassador Reyes.

The Ambassador cited the WFP’s Food-for-Work program in the Philippines which enabled the planting of 5 million man-

groves in Zamboanga city that would help ensure the revival of sanctuaries for fishes and migratory birds.

The Philippines also thanked the European Union’s partnership with the Philippine government in achieving its Millenium

Development Goals, especially in reducing poverty and enhancing disaster risk management.

The EU has extended substantial relief and rehabilitation assistance to the victims of typhoon Haiyan. EU-funded projects

are implemented by partner organizations, notably the WFP.

The WFP is the food assistance branch of the United Nations and the world's largest humanitarian organization addressing

hunger and promoting food security.

PH SPEAKS AT ANNUAL SESSION OF THE UN WORLD FOOD PROGRAM


On 10 May, the Asia Pacific Group of the United Nations Women’s Guild (APG-UNWG) held a fundrais-

ing event for the victims of typhoon Haiyan at the Casa Generalizia of the Society of the Divine Word in

Rome.

Led by its President Winy Amato, Vice President Susheela Rodrigues, treasurer Takako Fujinami, and

overall coordinator Maris Gavino, the APG-UNWG held a food fair and cultural program featuring dish-

es, songs and dances from the Asia-Pacific. Dr. Noelle Rodriguez coordinated the Philippine participation

in the event, as well as the preparation of dishes for the Philippine food table.

The event generated a festive atmosphere with a collage of Asian taste, sound, color and movement.

Filipino performers— such as singer Robert Jacinto and a group of young Filipino residents in Rome with a common interest in

music and dance called the “Pinoy Teens” — joined counterpart performances for the Asia-Pacific region.

Mr. Jacinto and the Pinoy Teens entertained all present with Filipino songs and traditional Philippine folk dances. Other per-

formers rendered an Indian dance, a Japanese children’s song (Koinobori) and dance (Doraemon Ondo), Bangladeshi New Year

and harvest dances, and the Sajojo Indonesian dance.

Ms. Marie Luarca-Reyes, on behalf of Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr., thanked the organizers for once

again remembering to help those that were seriously affected by typhoon Haiyan. She also thanked the guests

who came to support the noble project of the ladies of the APG-UNWG.

The Asia Pacific Group identified the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in the Philippines to help those affected

through the project: Bancas for the Philippines. This project aims to bring fiberglass boat technology to the

Philippine communities affected by Haiyan, while reducing the use of sawn timber and plywood. The project seeks to avoid

increasing fishing pressure on the environment by sharing climate-smart technologies to small scale, sustenance fishermen

whose boats rely on paddle or sail power.

Article contributed by Dr. Noelle Rodriguez and Ms. Maris Gavino. (Photos courtesy of Mr. Stefano Romano)

PHILIPPINES THANKS THE ASIA PACIFIC GROUP OF THE UNITED NATIONS

WOMEN’S GUILD FOR THE TYPHOON HAIYAN AID



On 15-22 April 2014, a delegation from the Philippine Postal

Corporation headed by Postmaster General Josefina dela

Cruz held an official visit to Italy to further strengthen insti-

tutional linkages between PhilPost and the Poste Italiane as

well as the Vatican Post.

The Postmaster General presented to Pope Francis the

framed Papal Stamps of His Holiness at St. Peter Square

right after the 10:00 a.m. General Audience in Vatican City.

The Pope Francis Stamps commemorate the second year of

his pontificate as leader of the Catholic Church.

The PhilPost delegation likewise held an institutional meet-

ing with counterparts at the Poste Italiane headquarters in

Rome to further strengthen its Postepay Card project

launched in Rome last year. The Postepay Card, aimed at

the Filipino community in Italy, has significantly lowered the

costs of remittance fees for our countrymen in Italy, which

ultimately greatly benefits their families in the Philippines.

Postmaster General dela Cruz also met with officials of the

International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to

strengthen linkages with IFAD in support of its thrust to im-

prove food security by scaling-up the impact of remittances.

The PhilPost is spearheading efforts to use its

vast postal network and workforce to cut down

transfer costs, reduce travel time and limit the

dangerous journeys poor rural people routinely

make in order to collect money sent from

abroad. PhilPost is currently implementing a

door-to-door type of remittance service in rural

areas by using its vast network all over the Phil-

ippines.

Postmaster General dela Cruz and delegation also held consultation meetings with the Filipino communi-

ty, particularly with with the Confederation of Filipino Communities in Tuscany, to further explore pro-

jects for the benefit of Filipinos in Italy.

PHILPOST GREETS THE POPE WITH OFFICIAL STAMP

CULTURAL AND ECONOMIC DIPLOMACYCULTURAL AND ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY


On 08 April 2014 at the Fiera Milano in Milan, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. attended this year’s Salone Internazionale del Mobile, the world’s largest furniture trade fair, which show-cased the best of Philippine furni-ture design. The Philippine Center for Inter-national Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) put together a team of Philippine furniture de-signers who exhibited the best of Filipino craftsmanship and inge-nuity in furniture design. Curated by famed Filipino design-er Budji Layug, select furniture pieces from Philippine makers were displayed at the Design Philippines stand. Internationally renowned Filipino furniture designer, Kenneth Cobonpue, showcased his own collec-tion at the adjoining stand. Together with DFA Undersecretary Jesus Yabes, OUMWA Executive Director Reynaldo Catapang and Con-sul General to Milan Marichu Mauro, Ambassador Reyes visited the Design Philippines exhibition booths to show solidarity and support the Philippine furniture designers and makers. The Salone Internazionale del Mobile is a furniture fair held annually in Milan. It is the largest trade fair of its kind in the world. The exhibition showcases the latest in furniture and design from countries around the world. It is considered a leading venue for the display of new products by designers of furniture, lighting and other home furnishings.

From Right: Budji Layug, Vice Consul Rosanna Josue, Kenneth Cobonpue, Philippine Ambassador to Rome, H.E. Virgilio Reyes , Consul General to Milan Marichu Mauro, Undersecretary Jesus Yabes and Vice Consul Helen Sayo and the rest of the Philippine delegation pose for a picture in front of the Philippine stand at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan, Italy.

FILIPINO FURNITURE SHAKERS AND MOVERS SPARKLE IN WORLD’S LARGEST

FURNITURE FAIR IN MILAN


Filipino graphic artist Michael Vincent Manalo recently held his art exhibit in Rome entitled “The Remembrances of the Soul”. Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. attended the vernissage of the exhibit on 09 May 2014. The Philippine Embassy lauded Mr. Manalo for sharing his talent through this exhibit to both Filipinos and Italians alike. Mr. Manalo, a photographer and photo-manipulator, is inspired by the imagined memories of nostalgic and dream-like environments. Other than in Italy, his works have been exhibited in several coun-tries like- Australia, England, Germany, Georgia, Japan, Lithua-

nia, Poland, Serbia, South Korea, Taiwan, UK, USA, and the Philippines. Mr. Manalo’s art exhibit ran until 10 June at the Rosso20Sette Gallery in the fashionable Vicolo Del Governo Vecchio, Rome.

MANALO A WINNER AS HE HOLDS ONE-MAN EXHIBIT IN ROME

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Furniture


ITALY AWED BY “ACROSS ASIA FILM FESTIVAL:

FOCUS ON FILIPINO NEW WAVE”


The 2014 “Across Asia Film Festi-val: Focus on Filipino New Wave” was held in Rome on 31 May to 01 June 2014 at Italy’s Museo delle Arti del XXI secolo (National Muse-um of Art of the 21st Century) or the MAXXI, a building designed by famous Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid

With the strong support of the Filipino Development Council of the Philippines, the following Filipino “new wave” films were featured during the Film Festival, free of charge:

Likewise honored in the Film Festival was our very own Director Khavn de la Cruz whose films such as “Mondomanila”, “EDSA XXX”, and “Miserecordia” were shown to Italian and Filipino art film enthusiasts and the public at large. Apart from being a filmmaker, Khavn is also a poet, sing-er, songwriter, and pianist.

His film Mondomanila merges drama, musical, horror, experi-mental, and exploitation cinema. It tells the story of teenage anti-hero Tony de Guzman and the rough neighborhood he calls home.

Aparisyon

A 2012 Filipino psychological

drama film by Vincent Sando-

val about nuns in the period im-

mediately preceding Martial

Law. Starring Jodi Sta. Maria

and MyleneDizon .

Iskalawags

Directed by Keith Deligero and starring

children from Camotes Island, the film

is about seven young punks, who call

themselves the Iskalawags because of

their shared love for Filipino action

movies.

Debosyon

A fim by Alvin Yapan about

Mando (Paulo Avelino), a

Bikolano devotee of

Ina, Virgin of Peñafrancia,

Patroness of Bikolandia

Badil

The film follows Nonoy as he takes over

his Father, the Kapitan’s, duties as

guardian to committed voters harassed

by vote buyers on the eve of the elec-

tion. Directed by Chito S. Roño and

starring JhongHilario, Dick Israel, and

Nikki Gil.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mylene_Dizon

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0383762/?ref_=tt_ov_st





The Film Fest also generated a festive atmosphere with a wonderful celebration of Filipino sound and movement. Fil-ipino performers rendered distinct Filipino performances from ballad songs, rap music, beatbox, hiphop dance, and the Filipino singkil and tinikling.

The Philippine Embassy in Rome manifested pride in Filipino filmmakers who were featured in the Across Asia Film Festival. Mr. de la Cruz went personally to Rome to share his talent through his films to both Fil-ipinos and Italians alike. In the morning of 01 June, Mr. de la Cruz conducted a free filmmaking seminar entitled “The Zero Minute Film School”, which was attended by both Filipino and Italian film enthu-siasts. In the evening, Mr. de la Cruz again rendered a public performance through a free piano concert while accompanying the showing of his film entitled Kalakala, about the vic-tims of typhoon Sendong. In his remarks to formally open the Film Festival, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. said that while some independent Filipino films featured in movie festivals may tend to focus on the seamy and sordid side of the Philippine life, the greater majority of Filipinos are law-abiding citizens and that is possible to lead peaceful, productive lives all throughout the Philippines.

The Embassy commended the Across Asia Film Festi-val in advancing better appreciation of Filipino culture and arts, for being an important partner of the Embas-sy in promoting a positive image of the Philippines and the Filipino people.

In EDSA XXX, Khavn took us

forward to 2030 in the form of

a creative mix between a sci-

ence-fiction musical and politi-

cal satire.

Misericordia is avant

garde as it crosses a trav-

el documentary and vam-

pire fiction.

Director Khavn dela Cruz and his film Kalakala.


FILIPINO COMMUNITY

On 16 April 2014, the Associazione Italiana Malati di Cancro (“Italian Association of Cancer Pa-

tients”) AIMAC held a Women Cancer Care Forum on Cancer Prevention at the Embassy Social Hall.

Doctors from prominent hospitals in Rome gave the Filipino audience present comprehensive infor-

mation on cancer prevention, particularly breast and cervical cancers.

The resource persons were Italian doctors Dr. Antonella Savarese and Dr. Emanuela Mancini both of

the Regina Elena Hospital, and Dr. Tiziana Ragni Raimondi of the Fatebenefratelli Hospital.

According to the resource persons, breast and cervical cancers may not always cause symptoms, but

there are screening tests that can find these cancers early, and preventive measures so that the disease

can be totally avoided.

In her re-

marks,

Consul

General

Leila Lora

-Santos

called on

the public to take note of

valuable information on

how we can prevent can-

cer, stay healthy, and ulti-

mately enjoy the fruits of

our labor longer.

FOREIGN WOMEN CANCER CARE FORUM

ON CANCER PREVENTION HELD AT EMBASSY


FILIPINO COMMUNITY

The Philippine Consulate General in Milan, led by its

new Consul General, Ms. Marichu Mauro, held an

open forum with Filipino community leaders on the

issues faced by Filipinos in Italy.

It was an occasion for the Filcom leaders to address

their questions on Assistance-to-Nationals concerns to

Undersecretary Jesus I. Yabes of the Department of

Foreign Affairs-Office of the Undersecretary for Mi-

grant Workers’ Affairs and services of the Consulate.

H.E. Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes travelled from

Rome to welcome the Undersecretary. He also shared

his insights on how to address problems of Filipino

community in Italy.

Undersecretary Yabes conveyed the Philippine Gov-

ernment’s commitment in protecting the rights and

promoting the welfare of Filipinos overseas. He also

emphasized the duty of the Department of Foreign

Affairs to provide assistance to Filipinos-in-distress.

Among the issues raised during the open forum in-

clude OWWA membership benefits, DFA assistance

on the repatriation of the remains of Filipinos and re-

quest for more frequent mobile consular services.

Consul General Mauro also took the opportunity to

meet the Filcom leaders for the first time and engage

them to participate in upcoming meetings in line with

the Consulate’s continuing commitment in providing

quality service to all Filipinos under its jurisdiction.

Consul General Marichu Mauro welcomes the Filcom leaders and engages them to ask questions. Guests DFA Migrant Workers’ Affairs Undersecretary Jesus I. Yabes and Philippine Ambassador to Rome Virgilio A. Reyes join the panel.

AMBASSADOR REYES ATTENDS OPEN FORUM FILIPINO MIGRANTS ISSUES

HOSTED BY THE PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL IN MILAN

Upon the invitation of the religious congregation Suore

Ospedaliere della Misericordia, Consul General Leila C.

Lora-Santos with Attache Benilda Carillo attended on 11

May 2014 the 25th anniversary of religious profession of

Filipino nuns of the congregation, namely:

Sr. Rolanda Sabellaga

Sr. Mary Ann Cameros

Sr. Aidaleen Salcedo

Sr. Violeta Alolong

Sr. Josephine Giganto

Sr. Editha Seravillo

Sr. Cleofe Geolina

The Suore Ospedaliere della Misericordia is a religious

congregation of women religious hospital workers who has

made a vow to care for the sick.

The congregation was founded in 16 May 1821 in Rome at the Hospital of St. John Lateran to respond to the

urgent need of the time to care of the sick in the hospital.

EMBASSY REPRESENTATIVES ATTEND 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF

RELIGIOUS PROFESSION OF FILIPINO NUNS


FILIPINO COMMUNITY

Two Filipino children are part of the prestig-

ious Sistine Chapel Choir (Cappella Musicale

Pontificia Sistina).

The Sistine Chapel Choir is a choir based in the

Vatican and is one of the oldest religious choirs in

the world. At present, the choir comprises ap-

proximately twenty adult singers (eleven tenors

and nine basses) and thirty boy choristers

(sopranos and contraltos).

Filipino boys Dan Arancina (10 years old) and Eman-

uele Mejico (11 years old) are both part of the official

boy choristers of the Sistine Chapel Choir.

On 02 April, the Choir held and “open day” perfor-

mance at the Basilica of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli in

Rome to let the public get a glimpse of its activities.

Both Dan and Emanuele performed in this open day

performance.

2 FILIPINO YOUTHS ARE MEMBERS OF THE POPE’S OFFICIAL CHOIR

Filipino domestic worker in Rome Mr. Celso Neo officially presented his

book “Sweat and Blood” at the Philippine Embassy in Rome before Am-

bassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr.

“Sweat and Blood” recounts the life story of Filipino emigrant workers

employed in the domestic service sector in Italy. For Mr. Neo, the book

presents the human drama as seen from the historical, sociological, and

juridical perspective of Filipino migrants in Italy.

Mr. Neo states in his book’s thesis that the phenomenon of emigration

and its impact is not only felt in the lives of overseas Filipino workers but

also in the economy of both the recipient and host countries.

Realizing this view, according to Sweat and Blood, fosters a more harmo-

nious working relationship

between the Filipino do-

mestic worker and the Ital-

ian employer.

Those interested to secure

a copy of the book may

email Mr. Neo personally

at [email protected].

FILIPINO AUTHOR IN ROME PRESENTS HIS BOOK: “SWEAT AND BLOOD”

http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cappella_musicale_pontificia_sistina

http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cappella_musicale_pontificia_sistina

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Choir

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vatican_City


FILIPINO COMMUNITY

The Philippine Embassy in Rome held “Usapang Kababaihan”, a forum to foster gender sensitivity and protection of the rights of women. Consisting of two parts, the forum first featured a talk of Ms. Charito Basa of the Filipino Women’s Council to discuss pre-vention of violence against women. Ms. Basa said that violence against women is not limited to physical violence. Such violence may also be sexual, emotion-al, mental, verbal, or economic in nature. This was followed by a practical demonstration and exercise on basic self-defense for women led by Ms. Vilma Ramos of the Women Self Defence Organization and Guba Doce Pares.

Ms. Ramos showed practical manoeuvres for women to defend themselves against physical aggression. Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. in his remarks cited recent World Bank data showing the Philip-pines as a world leader in gender equality, particularly in the fields of legislation, management and government. He said that the 2013 Global Gender Gap Report also named the Philippines as Asia’s best performing country in terms of gender equality. The Ambassador, however, said that Filipinos should continue to foster gender equality and respect for women by eliminating all forms of violence against women.

EMBASSY HOLDS FORUM IN HONOR OF WOMEN

MUSEO PAMBATA PRESIDENT CONDUCTS “USAPANG KAYAMANAN NG

KABATAAN” AT THE EMBASSY

On 08 May 2014 at the Embassy Social Hall, Dr. Nina Lim-Yuson, President of the Museo Pambata, conducted a forum entitled “Kayamanan ng Kabataan”. Dr. Yuson travelled all the way from Manila to share with the Filipino community, specifically the children and their parents, practical tips on how children can be financially independent. From learning the value of “saving” to understanding the difference between a “need” and a “want”, Dr. Yuson engaged the children and their parents present in a lively discussion. Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. in his remarks stated that children are indeed the future of the Philippines. “Ang sabi nga ng ating pambansang bayaning si Jose Rizal, ‘ang kabataan ang kinabukasan ng ating bayan.’ Subalit para lubos na paunlarin ng ating mga kabataan ang bayang Pilipinas, obligasyon ng lahat ng magulang na siguraduhing makapagbigay sila ng magandang hiniharap para sa kanilang mga anak,” said the Ambassador The Philippine Embassy in Rome, with the active engagement, support and cooperation of the Filipino community in Italy, strive to substantively contribute towards the continued empowerment of our overseas kababayans. The Embassy thus thanks Dr. Yuson in sharing her insights on how OFWs in Italy and their children can be financially independent.


FILIPINO COMMUNITY

EMBASSY SUPPORTS GINOONG PILIPINAS-ITALIA 2014

On 04 May 2014, Consul General Leila Lora-Santos and Vice Con-

sul Jarie Osias graced the awards night of Ginoong Pilipinas-Italia

2014.

Mr. Danilo Bansagale was chosen as Ginoong Pilipinas-Italia 2014.

He likewise won the awards for Best in National Costume, Best in

Sports Wear, Best in Formal Attire, and Ginoong Talent.

Mr. Majid Buenavente was 1st Runner-Up and also won the award

for Ginoong Photogenic.

Mr. Blas Trinidad Jr was 2nd Runner-Up and

won the awards for Ginoong Facebook 2014

and Ginoong ACEG 2014.

Mr. Randy Velasco was 3rd Runner-Up, and

won the award for Ginoong Friendship,

Ginoong Popularity, and Gawad Ulirang Ama

2014

The other finalists were Mr. Danny Flori-

da (Ginoong Filinvest 2014), Mr. Ramil An-

geles (Ginoong Friendship Group 2014), and Mr. Raymond Valdez (who was unable to attend the awards night

due to an illness).

Consul General Lora-Santos congratulated all finalists and commended their spirit in promoting the right values of

a true Filipino “padre de pamilya”.

Ginoong Pilipinas-Italy 2014 is a project of the Alona Cochon Entertainment Group in cooperation with the

Ginang Pilipinas - Italia Group Friendship Group in Rome. Photo courtesy of Ms. Kylee Samson and

Ms. Analiezel Abello.

On 06 April 2014, Third Secretary and Vice Consul Kristine Margret Malang attended as guest of honor the Pinoy Fiesta sa South Italy 2014 in Palermo, Sicily. The fiesta celebration, organized by the Filipino Associ-ation of Talents in Europe, featured a three-part pro-gram— namely Search for Star Kids, Pinoy Talents Pasikatan, and Search for Baby Models— to highlight Filipino culture and the talents of the Filipino youth in Palermo.

Vice Consul Malang, in her remarks, called on our second-generation Filipinos in Italy to continue to be proud of their heritage through endeavors that highlight Filipino culture, values, and history. Philippine Honorary Consul to Palermo, Dott. Antonino di Liberto, was likewise present in the event. The Philippine Embassy looks forward to closer cooperation with our youth for them to effectively integrate, excel in their studies, and take active roles in socio-civic life here and back home.

EMBASSY SUPPORTS PINOY FIESTA CELEBRATION IN PALERMO


FILIPINO COMMUNITY

EMBASSY SUPPORTS MS. MUNDIALIDO PHILIPPINES 2014

On 11 May 2014, Third Secretary and Vice Consul Malang graced the coronation

night of Miss Mundialido Philippines 2014.

Ms. Camille Joanne Manalo was chosen as Ms. Mundialido Philippines to compete in

the Miss Mundialido 2014, an international beauty pageant among the nations repre-

sented in the 2014 Mundialido football tournament.

This pageant is a related event to the 2014 Mundialido, otherwise known as "Coppa

del Presidente della Repubblica Italiana" (The Cup of the President of the Italian Re-

public) which shall be held from 28 May 2014 to 29 June 2014.

The Philippines, represented by Team Deus Fratres Onlus, is among the 25 teams rep-

resented in the 16th edition of the Mundialido, a prestigious football tournament for all

foreigner teams in Italy under patronage of the President of the Republic of Italy.

Special guests during the coronation night of Ms. Mundialiado Philippines 2014 were

the all-Filipino members of Team Deus Fratres Onlus.

Together with the Philippines, the other nations represented in the 2014 Mundialido

are Afghanistan, Albania, Bangladesh, Cape Verde, Colombia, Congo, Ecuador,

Ethiopia, Japan, Ireland, Italy, Moldova, Morocco, Nigeria, Paraguay, Peru,

Poland, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Spain and Ukraine, plus 2 ethnic teams called Senza Frontiere and Rap-

presentante ROM, respectively.

On 19 May 2014, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. went to the Head-

quarters of the Knights of Rizal in Manila and called on Supreme Com-

mander Sir Reghis M. Romero II, KGCR to gain valuable insights

from his initiatives to propagate Rizalism which can be replicated by

Knights of Rizal-Rome Chapter.

Ambassador Reyes is a founding member of the Knights of Rizal-Rome

Chapter.

The Ambassador also discussed with Supreme Commander Romero the proposed schedule of the chartering of

the Knights of Rizal-Reggio Calabria Chapter in Reggio Calabria, Southern Italy on 26 July 2014. Philip-

pine Honorary Consul General Domenico Marcianò is the incoming Chapter Commander of said KOR chapter.

The Order of the Knights of Rizal is a “civic and patriotic organization recognized by law as an instrumentality

by which the teachings of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal may be propagated among the Filipino people, and

others who may believe in his teachings to the end that they may emulate and follow his examples”. It is also a

civic and patriotic organization as well as a cultural, non-sectarian, non-partisan, and non-racial organization.

AMBASSADOR REYES CALL ON SUPREME COMMANDER OF THE KNIGHTS OF RIZAL


SPORTS

13 April 2014, Rome – The Filipino European Migrants International Chess Academy

(FEMICA) in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy held at the Embassy Social Hall in

Rome the “3rd Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. Cup— Open Semi-Blitz Rapid Chess

Tournament”.

A total of 50 players– Filipinos, Italians and even an Indonesian– participated in the tourna-

ment.

In his message to the participants, Ambassador Reyes highlighted the academic and social

benefits of chess and its potential to foster friendship between the peoples of the Philippines

and Italy.

Italian national, Paolo Capetile, was champion of the 3rd Ambassador’s Cup.

The winners’ list is as follows:

Champion- Paolo Capetile (Italy)

1st Runner-Up- Merol Delco (Philippines)

2nd Runner- Evy Lindiawati (Indonesia)

3rd Runner- Leonardo del Vecchio (Italy)

Winners, Non-Classification Category- Danilo Escubedo (Philippines)

Edwin Carpio (Philippines)

Winner, Best Under 14 Years Old- Lorenzo Ciocca (Italy)

The Philippine Embassy encourages all the youth and second-generation Filipinos as well as their parents to continue partici-

pating in this activity provided by the Embassy and FEMICA, with the hope of discovering the next Filipino Chess

Grandmaster in Italy.

3rd AMBASSADOR REYES INVITATIONAL CHESS CUP HELD AT

PHILIPPINE EMBASSY, ROME

Filipino youth Catreyell Dolor led his Lazio school team to win the 2014 Italian

National Scholastic Chess Team Championship held in Palermo last 22-24 May

2014.

On 30 May, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. personally congratulated

Catreyell for his achievement in leading his team and making the Philippines

proud in the process.

The Philippine Embassy in Rome in cooperation with the Filipino European

Migrants International Chess Academy ( FEMICA ) continue to support and

encourage young Filipino chess players to excel in chess competitions both in

Italy and in international events in Europe.

FEMICA has thus launched its program "Search

for the Future Filipino Chess Grandmaster" by

conducting chess clinics and tournaments to

encourage our Filipino youth to play chess.

Chess sharpens a person’s intellect and im-

proves ones analytical and logical thinking.

(Photos courtesy of FEMICA and Mr. Clement Dolor)

The proud mother and father assist Ambassador Reyes in pinning a citation on their son in recognition for his achievement.

From left : Ms. Mercy Garcia Dolor (mother of Catreyell), chess aficionado Mr. Nick Calbay, Ambassador Reyes, Catreyell Dolor, Mr. Clement Dolor (father of Catreyell) and FEMICA President and International Master Virgilio Vuelban

9-YEAR OLD FILIPINO CHESS PRODIGY LEADS SCHOOL TEAM TO CHAMPIONSHIP


SPORTS

On 16 May 2014, the Philippines represented by Team Deus Fratres Onlus together with Embassy representatives attend-ed the formal drawing of lots for the six groupings of the elimination rounds of the 2014 Mundialido (16 th edition of the "Coppa del Presidente della Repubblica Italiana"). Team Philippines was drawn to be part of Group F and shall be competing with the teams from Nigeria, Albania and Ethiopia.

Following is Team Philippines’ elimination matches schedule:

The Atletico 2000 is located at Via di Centocelle, Rome. The official kickoff ceremony and launch of the 2014 Mundialido was held on 25 May 2014 at the Stadio dei Marmi in Foro Italico.

Date

Time

Venue

31 May 14 1900H Atletico 2000 PH vs. NIGERIA

06 June 14 1900H Atletico 2000 PH vs. ALBANIA

13 June 14 2100H Atletico 2000 PH vs. ETHIOPIA

TEAM PHILIPPINES AT THE 2014 MUNDIALIDO

On 23 May, the Associazione Sportiva Dilettantistica Senza Frontiere (“Amateur Sports Association Senza Frontiere” or ASD Senza Frontiere) held an awarding ceremony for its 2013-2014 Football Tournament. The ceremony was held at the Sala Tirreno of the Regione Lazio headquarters in the presence of the participating teams, diplomatic representatives, and officials of the Commune di Roma and Regione Lazio. During the ceremony, the message of Rome Mayor Ignazio Marino was read congratulating the ASD Senza Frontiere, which, for more than a decade has promoted sports, football in particular, under the principles of inclusion and dialogue. Mayor Marino noted that ASD Senza Frontiere offers concrete opportunities for integration by using sports as a vehicle to combat racism and intolerance. The participating Philippine team called “Team for OFWs” was conferred an award for its first ever participation in the ASD Senza Frontiere’s Football Tournament. Vice Consul Jarie Osias was present to award the trophy to the “Team for OFWs”. The winners of the ASD Senza Frontiere Football Tournament are as follows: Tunisia (men’s category 8) Ecuador (women’s category 5) Morocco (men’s category 5) Team Villa Maraini Foundation (special award for exemplifying sportsmanship and respect for opponents) ASD Senza Frontiere continues to promote a peaceful coexistence among the different migrant communities in Rome by highlighting tolerance, hospitality and collaboration without cultural barriers.

Photo courtesy of Ms. Aileen Joy Natividad Rabara

FILIPINO TEAM PARTICIPATES IN THE

ASD SENZA FRONTIERE FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT


PHILIPPINE OVERSEAS LABOR OFFICE

On 16 May 2014, the Assistenti Famil-

iari Corso Gratuito (free care-giving

course) intended for migrant workers in

Rome was launched at Rome’s Municip-

io VIII.

This project fully supported by the Roma

Capitale, with sponsorship/funding from

the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in

Rome, the Overseas Worker’s Welfare

Office in Manila, and the Dangal ng

Guardians Philippines International Inc.

(DGPII), among others, shall provide a

free care-giving certification course to

selected thirty (30) Filipinos in Italy.

The first batch of Filipino “students”

who were present during the launch all

committed to devote time and effort to

the course, for a total of 60 hours of the-

oretical and practical training.

Consul Enrique Voltaire Pingol, Vice

Consul Jarie Osias, Welfare Officer

Loreta Vergara, and DGPII President

Judito Estopacia were also present dur-

ing the event.

OFWs working in Italy are mostly college degree holders or even professionals in the Philippines. The Assist-

tenti Familiari Corso Gratuito Project greatly helps in the further integration of Filipino workers in the Italian

labor system.

The Embassy congratulates the first batch of Filipinos participating in the course.

(Photos courtesy of Welof Vergara, Mr. Ric Rosales and Ms. Lindsay Acci)

EMBASSY SUPPORTS LAUNCH OF FREE CARE-GIVING COURSE

FOR FIRST BATCH OF FILIPINOS


PASUGUAN NG PILIPINAS, ROMA

05 May – The Overseas Voting Training for Registration/Certification of Overseas Voters

in Europe and Israel was successfully held at the Ergife Palace Hotel, Rome, Italy from

30 April to 02 May 2014 in preparation for the 06 May 2014 – 31 October 2015 registra-

tion/certification period for the 2016 Presidential Elections.

The Philippine Embassy in Rome under

Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. host-

ed the three-day event.

Sixty three (63) participants from twenty

one (21) foreign service posts attended

the three day training led by Undersecre-

tary Rafael E. Seguis, Chairman of the

Department of Foreign Affairs – Overseas Voting Secretariat (DFA - OVS) and Commis-

sion on Elections (COMELEC) Commissioner Al Parreño.

COMELEC Directors Jose M. Tolentino, Bartolome J. Sinocruz, Jr., Ferdinand de Leon

and Atty. Emilio Marañon oriented and trained the participants on the procedure for regis-

tration/certification of overseas voters in accordance with the Overseas Voting Act of

2013.

Individual targets were assigned to each foreign service post and DFA-OVS and COME-

LEC committed to give all the necessary support to help achieve the at least 200,000 tar-

get of new overseas voter registrants in the region.

Comelec Commissioner Al Parreño Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. DFA Undersecretary Rafael E. Seguis

2014 REGIONAL TRAINING ON OVERSEAS VOTING REGISTRATION

FOR EUROPE AND ISRAEL HELD IN ROME


AMBASSADOR REYES CONDUCTS OFFICIAL VISIT TO

REGGIO CALABRIA AND MESSINA

On 05-06 April 2014, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. accompanied by his wife Mrs. Marie L.

Reyes and Honorary Consul General Dominico Marciano undertook important institutional vis-

its in Reggio Calabria and Messina to further enhance relations between the Philippines and

Italy.

Ambassador Reyes and delegation were received at the reception hall of the Palazzo della Pro-

vincia di Reggio Calabria by the President of the Province of Reggio Calabria Dott. Giuseppe

Raffa, Provincial Legal and Cultural Assessor Dott. Eduardo Lamberti-Castronuovo, Provincial

Council President Hon. Antonio Eroi, and the Bishop of Reggio Calabria Mons. Giovanni Ferro.

During the meeting with Reggio Calabria’s officials, the Ambassador and delegation discussed

the favorable working conditions of the Filipino community present in the entire province of

Reggio Calabria. The local officials said they intend to send a delegation from Reggio Calabria

to join the official business delegation traveling to the Philippines this June 2014.

The following day, Ambassador Reyes and delegation went to the province of Messina to meet

with the local authorities and the Filipino community there.

The Ambassador was received at the Palazzo Zanca, seat of the Municipality of Messina, by

Vice Mayor Prof. Guido Signorino and his wife. The Ambassador also met with the City

Council of Messina headed by Councilor Emila Barrile, where a large contingent of the Filipino

community was likewise present.

During the Ambassador’s official visit, Honorary Consul General also organized an important

meeting between the Ambassador and the various heads of associations/organizations of the

Filipino communities in Reggio Calabria, Messina and Catanzaro. The meeting was held at the

Honorary Consulate General of the Philippines in Reggio Calabria.



05-06 April 2014 – Philippine Embassy Rome representatives headed by Vice Consul Margret Malang

went to Messina to extend consular services to Filipinos in Messina, Reggio Calabria and neighboring

cities. The team was able to process 466 e-passports, 23 reports of birth and 43 notarials.

The Philippine Labor Office headed by Labor Attache Viveca Catalig like-

wise joined the outreach together with OWWA, Pag-Ibig and SSS.

Meanwhile, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. actively engaged with Filipi-

nos in Messina and Reggio Calabria and heard their valuable views on con-

sular and POLO concerns. (Photo Credits: ACF Messina)

PH EMBASSY VISITSs MESSINA FOR CONSULAR OUTREACH


On 17-18 May 2014, a 7-man Consular team led by Consul General Leila Lora-Santos was sent to the city of Palermo in the island of Sicily to extend consular services to Filipinos in the area. This team was joined by a 4-man POLO team, comprising of representatives from OWWA, Pag-Ibig and SSS. The consular outreach mission was held in close collaboration and with the assistance of the Filipino community in Palermo (Philippine Don Bosco Association) The outreach successfully assisted around 800 Filipinos, specifically servicing a total of 421 e-passport applicants, 84 notarials (Reports of Birth/Marriage/Death; Affidavits and Special Power of Attorney (SPAs) and 38 other services such as, among others, urgent extension of passports, authentication, certifications, dual citi-zenship and NBI clearances. The POLO team serviced 114 Pag-Ibig membership (new and old), 96 SSS mem-bers (new and reactivated) and 166 applications for OWWA membership. The outreach was likewise able to register 31 new overseas voters. The next out-reach of the Embassy will be held in Florence in July 2014.

CONSULAR OUTREACH MISSION TO THE CITY OF PALERMO IN SICILY

SERVICES AROUND 800 FILIPINOS


As all roads led to Rome during the last weekend of April 2014 for the canonization of Popes John

XXIII and John Paul II, the Philippine Embassy in Rome dispatched on 26-27 April 2014 a Consular

Mobile Team to Empoli in the Tuscan region to render services to the Filipinos based in the area,

which is located 315 kilometres away from Rome.

The consular team, led by Consul Enrique V. Pingol and joined by Labor Attaché, Atty. Viveca

Catalig and Welfare Officer Loreta

Vergara with POLO, OWWA,

PAG-IBIG and SSS representa-

tives, processed more than 700 con-

sular applications. There was also a

constant stream of queries and

problems/concerns from Filipinos

dealt with by the team.

Consular services rendered include

passport renewals, civil registra-

tions, passport validity extensions,

applications for NBI, Dual Citizen-

ship, annotations/corrections in civ-

il registry reports, PAG-IBIG-SSS-

OWWA memberships and OEC

issuances.

Consular team officials also had an

hour-long consultation meeting

with Filipino leaders and communi-

ty members on the last day of the

mission. The 2-day consular mis-

sion was capped with the turn-over

of Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s bust to the

Knights of Rizal, Florence Chapter,

and in the presence of other Filipi-

no leaders and community mem-

bers. Filipinos conveyed their de-

light for Rizal’s bust, as handed by

the Embassy. For them, the bust is

a tangible reminder to continue to

live up to the ideals and values of

the country’s national hero.

The outreach mission was orga-

nized in cooperation with the Filipino European Association (FEA) headed by Mr. Dennis Reyes and

the support of the Confederation of Filipino Community in Tuscany under the guidance of its Presi-

dent and Vice President, Ms. Divinia Capalad and Mr. Carlos Simbillo, respectively.

The Filipino community in Empoli expressed great appreciation to the Embassy’s consular mobile

services.

EMPOLI HERE WE COME!


TOP TO BOTTOM: (1) Consular Mobile Services Team led by Consul Enrique V. Pingol (11 th from left) join the Filipino Community in Empoli and from other areas in Tuscany in a souvenir photo. (2) Filipinos await their turn for consular services. (3) SSS and PAG IBIG representatives attending to clients. (4) Consul Enrique V. Pingol (standing) addresses fellow Filipinos in a consultation meeting with (from left to right) Ms. Divina Capalad, President of the Confederation of Filipino Community in Tuscany, Ms. Loreta Vergara, OWWA Welfare Officer, Atty. Viveca Catalig, Labor Attaché, Mr. Dennis Reyes, President of the Filipino Europeans Association (FEA), Mr. Carlos Simbillo, Vice President of the Confederation of Filipino Community in Tuscany. (5) Turn Over of Rizal Bust to Mr. Carlos Simbillo, Grand Command-er, Knights of Rizal, Florence Chapter.



Fifteen Filipino seafarers are now back home in the Philippines with their loved ones after being repatriated from Malta last 18 April (Good Fri-day) following their 8-month ordeal stranded in Maltese waters on board the MV B Lady Bug. The company which owned the vessel went bankrupt and abandoned the crew.

The long-wait came to an end last 17 April 2014 (Maundy Thursday) as the 15 Filipino sailors fi-nally disembarked from the ship, made possible by the Court of Malta’s decision to approve the sale of the vessel to new owners.

With fresh funds available, a replacement crew was hired, which paved the way for the 15 Filipi-no seamen to leave the ship. The Filipino crew also received favorable financial settlement which included the payment of their back wages/allowances (with interest) and repatriation costs.

For eight months, the Philippine Embassy in Rome actively led coordination efforts to assist the Filipinos on board MV B Lady Bug with the DFA and DOLE in Manila, and through Mr. Paul Falzon of the International Transport Workers’ Federation, Mr. Kevin Attard and the government authorities in Malta.

The Embassy further ensured that the 15 Filipino seamen were properly assisted until the end with their disembarkation in Malta, meeting with Mal-tese lawyers to settle their unpaid wages/allowances and repatriation to the Philippines. Present in Malta was the Embassy’s Consul En-rique V. Pingol who travelled all the way from Rome.

The entire crew conveyed heartfelt appreciation for all the support provided them by Filipino and Mal-tese authorities to see through to a positive end their ordeal.

Crew arrived in the Philippines last Saturday, 19 April 2014, in time for the Easter celebrations. The 15 Filipino seafarers repatriated were: Mr. Archie B. Adorable; Mr. Ronaldo C. Aloc; Mr. Octavio A. Atok; Mr. Roel P. Amor; Mr. Mark John B. Ponce; Mr. John V. Binas; Mr. Conrado M. De Los Reyes; Mr. Antonio E. Gonzales, Jr.; Mr. Franco R. Gudez; Mr. Illuminado Daiparine; Mr. Nire V. Malayan; Mr. Kernel P. Pascual; Mr. Emmanuel B. Regalado; Mr. Gil A. Sales and; Mr. Danilo M. Veltran.

The 15 Filipino seafarers at the Fenech and Fenech law office in Valletta, Malta with Consul Enrique V. Pingol (center), Marine Litigation Lawyer, Atty. Adrian Attard (10th from right) Mr. Paul Falzon and Ship Captain Fabian Miranda 4th-5th from right). Law office is the legal representative in Malta of the new owners of MV B Lady Bug.

Filipino seafarers from MV B Lady Bug with at the Fenech and Fenech law office in Valletta, Malta with Consul Enrique V. Pingol (center) and Marine Litigation Lawyer, Atty. Adrian Attard (3rd from left) for the settlement of unpaid wages and allowances.

Filipino seafarers from MV B Lady Bug at Malta’s International Airport bound for return to the Philippines with Consul Enrique V. Pingol (7th from right) joined by Atty. Matthew Grech, Captain Fabian Miranda and Mr. Paul Falzon, ITF-Malta.

Filipino seafarers from MV B Lady Bug at the Emirates check-in counter for the return flight to Manila at Malta’s International Airport with Consul Enrique V. Pingol (center).

ROME PE ASSISTS 15 DISTRESSED FILIPINO SEAFARERS



On 17-20 April, Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. accompanied by his wife

Mrs. Marie L. Reyes and Honorary Consul Antonino di Liberto undertook

visits in Palermo, Cefalu, Agrigento and Monreale, all on the island of Sicily

to further enhance relations between the Philippines and Italy. Sicily is an

autonomous region of Italy with its unique culture and history.

Ambassador Reyes and delegation visited the Palazzo dei Normanni in Paler-

mo, seat of the Sicilian Parliament, and thereafter was welcomed at the Paler-

mo City Hall by Prof. Giusto Catania, Palermo’s assessor for immigrants. The

Ambassador and delegation thereafter met with His Eminence Paolo Cardinal

Romeo at the Archbishop’s Palace of Palermo, who had once been assigned

to Manila at the Papal Nunciature as a young priest.

The Ambassador and delegation, the following day, also undertook a cultural

visit to the city of Cefalu and proceeded to Agrigento to meet with its

Archbishop, Francesco Monte-

negro.

During the Ambassador’s visit,

Honorary Consul di Liberto

also held a consultation meeting

with the Ambassador and

members of the Filipino com-

munity at the premises of the

Honorary Consulate of the

Philippines in Palermo.

AMBASSADOR REYES RENEWS TIES WITH SICILY WITH CONSUL A.H. DESIGNATE DE LIBERTO

Ambassador Virgilio A. Reyes, Jr. was guest of honor

during the inauguration and formal opening of the

Philippine Honorary Consulate in Turin on 11 April,

bringing to four the member of official Philippine

honorary consulates in Italy

The Ambassador welcomed to the ranks of Philippine

Honorary Consuls Avv. Maria Grazia Cavallo who

now heads the Philippine Consulate in Turin.

Present during the inauguration were Consul General

Marichu Mauro of the Philippine Consulate General in

Milan, Honorary Consul General Fabio Fanfani

(Florence), Honorary Consul Antonino di Liberto

(Palermo), and the regional and local officials of

Piemonte and Valle d’Aosta.

The Philippine Honorary Consulate in Turin now renders services for Filipinos in the Piemonte and

Valle d’Aosta regions of northern Italy. Honorary Consul Cavallo’s office is located at Via Avigliana

13/1, Torino 10138 with telephone numbers (0039) 0114343030 and 0114330173.

CONSUL A.H. GRAZIA CAVALLO INSTALLED IN TURIN


On 10 April, the Philippine Embassy held a free public

screening of the documentary entitled “Il Futuro e

Troppo Grande” (The Future is Too Big) directed by

Giusy Buccheri and Michele Citoni. Both Ms. Buccheri

and Mr. Citoni were present during the Embassy screening

as well as their colleagues.

The film features second generation immigrants in Rome,

Filipino Romulo Emanuel “Re” Salvador and Chinese

Zhanxing Xu.

The film is about Re and Xu who recount their experiences

about life: study and work, family and love, and their ex-

pectations in Italy today.

The documentary is a reflection on the second generation

of immigration in Italy. In the film we witness the two

young people struggling with the problems of everyday life

and their respective difficulties in fitting into Italian society.

The largest number of Filipinos in the Eurozone area (now an estimated 190,000) is here in

Italy. Here, Filipinos have found a second home as indispensable members of the Italian

workforce and society. They have become an essential part of Italian society.

Nevertheless, the second generation of Fil-Italians - as shown in the film - have their fair share

of challenges. The film has been well-received by Filipinos and Italians alike.

“IL FUTURO E TROPPO GRANDE” PREMIERED FOR PINOYS AT THE EMBASSY



In as much as 3 million vehicles are

registered to immigrants in Italy to date,

the Automobile Club of Italy (ACI)

estimates that 14% of road accidents

involve foreigners.

ACI has thus launched its project

entitled “3000 Automobilisti Stranieri

Ambasciatori di Sicurezza

Stradale” (3000 Foreign Drivers as Am-

bassadors of Road Safety) for a period

of three (3) years since 2012.

On 12 April 2014, the Philippine Em-

bassy in Rome sent a delegation to

participate in ACI’s special course for

road safety education and safe driving

practices held at the ACI Center in

Vallelunga.

Embassy participants gained greater awareness of the risks on the road, and learned correct driving habits behind

the wheel. The highlights of the training course were the practical driving exercises for the right cornering speed,

proper use of brakes and ABS system, and driving maneuvers during an unexpected obstacle and loss of wheel

traction.

ACI Secretary General Ascanio Rozera said that the project is also a tool for the acceleration of the process of

social integration of foreigners in Italy. The project is fully supported by the Italian government through its

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry for International Cooperation and Integration, and the Ministry for Regional

Affairs, Tourism and Sports.

To date, the ACI has already certified 2000 foreign drivers as Ambassadors of Road Safety.

Embassy delegation: Vice Consul Jarie Osias, Mr. Christian Santos, Mr. Antonio Balladolid, Mr. Daniel Tanwangco, Ms. Mary Louise Tanwangco, Mr. Marion Reyes, Mr. Estelito Cabangon, and Mr. Joffrey Gido Pagaran.

PHILIPPINE EMBASSY STAFF CERTIFIED AS “AMBASSADORS OF ROAD SAFETY”

PHILIPPINE EMBASSY

Viale delle Medaglie d’Oro, -114, 00136, Rome, IT

Phone: (+39) 06.39746621—ATN Officer (ext. 207) / Passport Section (ext. 200)

Fax: (+39) 06.39740872 / E-mail: [email protected] / www.philembassy-rome.net

The Embassy is open to the Public from Mondays to Fridays

from 8:30AM to 5:00PM except during Philippine and Italian Holidays

In case of emergencies, please call the Duty Officer at (+39)3286907613.

Please note that consular inquiries (i.e. Passport etc)

will be advised to call the Embassy landline on the following working day.


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