Vol. III No. 01 The Official Newsletter of the Philippine Embassy, Athens www.philembathens.gr August 2013

Philippine Embassy in Athens Commemorates Athens PE holds a lecture on 115th Anniversary of Philippine Independence ‘’The Rights and Responsibili- ties of OFWs in Greece”

The Philippine Embassy in Athens, Greece in cooperation with M. Pavlakis- C. Moschos & As- sociates, represented by Atty. Ioannis M. Pavlakis and Atty. Christos I. Moschos, conducted a lec- ture on ‘’The Rights and Responsibilities of For- eign Workers in Greece”, during the regular monthly meeting of the Embassy with members of the Filipino community on Saturday, 13 April 2013 at the Philippine Embassy. The lecture is part of the Embassy’s continuing program to provide Filcom members with updates on issues and concerns that affect them. The Pavlakis-Moschos law firm is familiar with the issues and concerns of Filipino workers in Greece, having represented many Filipinos for Athens PE personnel during the diplomatic reception in commemoration of the accident, compensation, and unpaid wages, 115th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on 12 June 2013 among others. at the Ledra Marriott Hotel. Atty. Pavlakis also talked about the penalties Ambassador Meynardo LB. Monteale- involving crimes committed such as robbery, theft The Philippine Embassy in Athens and possession and selling of illegal drugs. celebrated the 115th anniversary of gre led Embassy officers and staff in Philippine independence on 12 June singing “Lupang Hinirang,” followed Ambassador Meynardo LB. Montealegre ex- pressed his appreciation to the two lawyers for 2013 with a series of activities by the recitation of the “Panunumpa constantly providing support and cooperation with that highlighted some of the best as- sa Watawat,” and the reading of the messages of President Benigno S. the Embassy. Ambassador Montealegre pre- pects of Philippine culture. sented a plaque of appreciation to Atty. Pavlakis Aquino III, Secretary of Foreign Af- The celebration started with a simple and Atty. Moschos. fairs Albert F. Del Rosario and Secre- flag-raising ceremony at the Philip- tary of Labor and Employment Rosa- Around 60 Filcom members attended said meet- pine Embassy grounds in the morning linda Baldoz. ing including Filcom leaders from the city of Thes- of 12 June. saloniki islands of Kos, Crete, and Corfu. (Continued on page 4)

DG De Lima meets with Athens PE Hosts the WIC of Athens with Meet My Country: Senior Greek Gov’t the to Celebrate National Heritage Month Officials and Business Philippine Embassy in Athens hosted the Leaders Women’s International Club (WIC) of Athens with Meet My Country: The Philippines on Dr. Lilia B. De Lima, Director General of Wednesday, 29 May 2013, at the residence of Phil- ippine Ambassador to Greece Meynardo LB. Mon- the Philippine Economic Zone Authority tealegre. More than 30 lady members of WIC, a (PEZA) and Undersecretary for Trade number of whom are Ambassadors’ spouses, and Investment, together with Philip- spouses of Greek government officials and busi- pine Ambassador to Greece, H.E. ness people, as well as key personalities in the Meynardo LB. Montealegre, met with Greek cultural and social strata attended the H.E. Theodorus Karaoglou, Minister of event, which coincided with the Embassy’s obser- Macedonia and Thrace, Mrs. Magda vance of National Heritage Month. Karakoli, Alternate Secretary General for Meet My Country is among the important regular International Economic Relations in activities of the WIC, where the group invites an Thessaloniki, Mr. Dimitrios Bakatselos, Embassy to present its country and highlight vari- President of the Thessaloniki Chamber ous aspects of its culture. Meet My Country: The of Commerce and Industry, H.E. Notis Philippines is also part of a series of activities Mitarachi, Deputy Minister for Develop- being undertaken in One of the posters specially designed for the “Meet My Coun- line with the Em- (Continued on page 2) try” event with the signatures of the WIC ladies. (Continued on page 9)

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(Continued from page 1)… DG De Lima the Philippines and Greece are excel- lent, but there are rooms for growth ment, Mr. Syngros M. Aristomenis, Chair- in the area of economic cooperation. man of Invest in Greece Agency, H.E. In her meetings, Dr. De Lima informed Dimitris Kourkoulas, Deputy Minister for her counterparts of the positive devel- Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Constantine opments in the Philippine economy Michalos, President of the Athens brought about by President Benigno S. Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Aquino’s “daang matuwid” policy of during Director-General De Lima’s visit transparency, accountability, and to Greece from 13 to 15 February 2013. good governance. PEZA alone experi- Dr. De Lima visited Greece upon the invi- enced an increase in investments by From Left: Mr. Constantine Michalos, President of tation of the Philippine Ambassador to 32% since President Aquino assumed the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry Greece as part of the Embassy’s eco- office in 2010. (ACCI), Director General De Lima, Ambassador nomic diplomacy program. The visit was Montealegre, and Mr. Nikos Sofianos, Secretary- As a result of Dr. De Lima’s visit, the General of ACCI, 15 February 2013 the first from a senior Philippine eco- Athens Chamber of Commerce and nomic official since bilateral relations Industry, the Thessaloniki Chamber Chamber for Business and Commerce between the two countries began in of Commerce and Industry, as well as the 1950. Dr. De Lima and her counterparts agreed to work towards organizing a Hellenic-Filipino Chamber for Business trade mission to the Philippines. noted that bilateral relations between and Commerce and the Filipino-Hellenic

Business Forum on the Philippines Held in Thessaloniki Athens PE Hosts Greek Businessmen at the Athens Club

Ambassador Meynardo LB. Monteale- gre hosted a business luncheon for PEZA Director-General Lilia B. De Lima and a group of Greek businesspeople at the prestigious Athens Club on 15 February 2013. DG De Lima visited Greece on 12 -16 February 2013 to help promote the Philippines as an attractive investment/business desti- From left: Ambassador Meynardo LB. Montealegre, Philippine Honorary Con- nation. Among the guests were mem- sul Nikolaos Margaropoulos, Director General Lilia B. De Lima, Mr. Yorgos Psinakis, and Mr. Nick Gitsis. bers of the Athens Chamber of Com- merce and Industry and other Greek businessmen from various sectors, i.e. A Business Forum on the Philippines, co- the participants should invest in the Phil- IT/call centers, manufacturing, ship- organized by the Philippine Embassy in ippines because of its world-class work- ping, mining, publishing, etc., together Athens, the Philippine Honorary Consu- force, which are literate, English-speaking, with Mr. Yorgos Psinakis, founding late in Thessaloniki, and the Thessaloniki and easily trainable; its business-friendly member of the Hellenic-Filipino Cham- Chamber of Commerce, was held in Thes- policies; and its strategic location in the ber for Business and Commerce and saloniki on 13 February 2013. Dr. Lilia B. Asia Pacific. Mr. Nick Gitsis, head of Filipino- De Lima, Director General of the Philip- Ambassador Montealegre, in his remarks, pine Economic Zone Authority and Under- Hellenic Chamber for Business and highlighted the fact that after sixteen Commerce. Both chambers agreed to secretary for Trade and Industry, was the years, the Philippines has long gotten past assist in linking Greek and Filipino keynote speaker in the said event, which the Asian financial crisis and is stronger businessmen in further exploring was attended by representatives of more than ever. He also stated that the country than thirty-five (35) companies in North- is enjoying a resurgence in business confi- business opportunities in the Philip- ern Greece. dence brought about by the transforma- pines.  Aside from Dr. De Lima, the panel of tional leadership of President Benigno S. speakers was comprised of H.E. Meynardo Aquino III and his commitment to trans- LB. Montealegre, Philippine Ambassador parency, accountability and good govern- to Greece, Mr. Dimitris Bakatselos, Presi- ance. dent of the Thessaloniki Chamber of Com- Mr. Psinakis and Mr. Gitsis closed the Fo- merce, Atty. Nikolaos Margaropoulos, rum by inviting Greek businessmen to Philippine Honorary Consul in Thessalo- consider the Philippines as an investment niki, Mr. Yorgos Psinakis, Founding Mem- destination for its political stability, highly ber of the Hellenic-Filipino Chamber for -skilled people, and beautiful islands. They Business and Commerce, and Mr. Nikos also offered the services of their Cham- Ambassador Meynardo LB. Montealegre Gitsis, Founder of the Filipino-Hellenic bers of Business and Commerce in orga- and Director-General Lilia b. De Lima Chamber for Business and Commerce. nizing business missions to the Philip- during the roundtable discussion at a lunch- In her keynote address, Director-General pines and conducting business-matching, eon hosted by the Philippine Embassy on De Lima stated that opportunities can be among others. 15 February 2013 at the Athens Club. found in times of crises. She stressed that

August 2013 PhilippiNews 3

Q & A on the UNCLOS Arbitral Proceedings Against China to Achieve a Peaceful and Durable Solution to the Dispute in the West Philippine Sea 1.Why are we bringing China to an arbitral Based on the cases so far handled by international 18. Did the US and Japan influence your deci- tribunal? tribunals on maritime disputes, the case would take sion to take this action? 3-4 years. China’s 9-dash line claim encompasses practically No. The Philippines is taking this action independ- the entire West Philippine Sea (WPS). We must 9.Will we win our case? ently. challenge the unlawful claim of China under their 9 We believe we have a very good case under inter- 19. What are the opinions of the different sec- -dash line in order to protect our national territory national law. In any legal action, however, there tors in Philippine society? and maritime domain. are many different factors to consider. What is While there are varied opinions on the dispute, 2.Why do we have to do this now? more important is that we are able to present our nevertheless, all Filipinos should unite to support case against China and defend our national inter- Having exhausted all possible initiatives, we feel the President’s constitutional mandate to protect est and maritime domain before an independent Philippine territory and national interest. the time to act is now. If we do not act now, we will international tribunal. We expect international law be in default. to be the great equalizer. 20. Will this result into a military conflict? 3.What is the basis of our legal action? 10. Who are the members of the PH legal team? China is a good friend. Arbitration is a peaceful and amicable process to settle a dispute between and The legal action is pursuant to the President’s Solicitor General Francis H. Jardeleza is the agent among friends. constitutional mandate to pursue the national inter- or the legal representative of the Philippines in this est and defend the Philippine territory and maritime arbitration case. Mr. Paul Reichler of the Washing- 21. What will happen to PH-China relations? domain. It also pursues the policy of a rules-based ton law firm Foley and Hoag is the lead counsel. approach based on international law, especially We will continue to pursue an enhancement of our UNCLOS, in resolving the disputes in the WPS. 11. Why are the other countries not filing a bilateral relations in all areas of cooperation. case against China? 4.What do we expect from this arbitral tribunal? 22. Would this action affect ASEAN? The Philippines is taking action based on its na- We are counting on ASEAN to support us in finding We hope that the arbitral tribunal will issue an tional interest and not on the actions or non-action award in accordance with international law that will a peaceful and durable solution to the dispute. The of other countries. direct China to respect our sovereign rights and Philippines must protect its own national interest in jurisdiction over our EEZ, continental shelf, con- 12.What if China refuses to participate in the this regional forum as well as in other fora in order tiguous zone, and territorial sea over the West arbitration? to enhance the respect of our international partners who support our cause. Philippine Sea, and to desist from undertaking The Philippines will pursue the procedures and unlawful acts that violate our rights. remedies available under Annex VII of UNCLOS to 23. Would discussions on the Code of Conduct 5.What is the process of arbitration? achieve the award outlined in the Statement of (CoC) continue? Claim. Under Annex VII of UNCLOS, the arbitration proc- Yes, the Philippines will continue to work with ess begins by notifying the other party to the dis- Annex VII of UNCLOS provides for compulsory ASEAN and China in crafting the Code of Conduct pute and giving a statement of facts on which the proceedings with binding decision. and implement the commitments of ASEAN Mem- ber States and China in the Declaration on the notification is based. 13. What’s next for the Philippines? Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC). In accordance with this process, the Philippines The Philippines will now prepare for the formation through the DFA handed the Note Verbale to the 24. Why can we not do joint development with of the 5-member arbitration panel and agree on the China? Chinese Ambassador in Manila in the afternoon of venue. 22 January 2013 notifying China that the Philip- Joint development, following the Chinese model, is pines is bringing the dispute in the WPS before an 14. Do you have the support of the other a violation of the Philippine Constitution. Joint branches of the government? arbitral tribunal under Annex VII of UNCLOS. development should be in accordance with Philip- The next step is to form the 5-member arbitration Yes, all the three branches of the Philippine Gov- pine law. panel. When the panel is formed, the parties will ernment support the President’s decision to bring 25. How much will this cost the Filipino peo- present their documents to further explain their the dispute in the West Philippine Sea before the ple? UNCLOS arbitral tribunal. case. One cannot put a price in the concerted effort of 15. What will be the effects on Philippines- 6.Is the legal track the only option? the Filipino people and government in defending China economic relations? We have adopted three tracks in terms of the politi- our patrimony, territory, national interest and na- cal, diplomatic and legal approaches. At this stage, As arbitration is friendly and peaceful, we hope that tional honor. the legal track presents the most durable option to there will be no adverse effects on our trade with 26. Why should the Filipinos support this ac- defend the national interest and territory on the China. President Aquino and President Hu Jintao tion? agreed that the bilateral agenda will be moved basis of international law. forward while contentious issues will be abstracted If someone forces himself into your house and tries 7.Who filed the case and where? for separate treatment. to unlawfully take away what belongs to you, The Philippines filed the arbitration case against should you not take action against the intruder? We are all for improving our economic relations Our action is in defense of our national territory China. The parties will have to agree on the place with China but it should not be at the expense of and maritime domain. where the arbitral tribunal will hold the hearing of surrendering our national sovereignty. the case. 27. How can all Filipinos help in promoting a 16. What will be the effects on tourism? Under UNCLOS, Parties to a dispute have the positive result of this legal initiative? choice on where to file the case, either in the Inter- The Philippines and China have an incredible All Filipinos should stand behind the President to national Court of Justice, ITLOS, arbitral tribunal people-to-people engagement. We look forward to defend what is ours in accordance with the Philip- and special arbitral tribunal. The Philippines chose enhance it through an effective tourism program. pine Constitution. We should all firmly demonstrate to bring this case before the arbitral tribunal be- 17. What will happen to our OFWs who may be our patriotism. We should all stand united as one cause it believes it is the appropriate body to hear affected by this action? before the whole world to manifest the President’s the complaint of the Philippines against China. The Philippine Government will provide the appro- leadership on this issue. 8.How long will the arbitration process last? priate safety net for the OFWs.

4 PhilippiNew s August 2013 in order that future generations of Fili- progress are shared by all, ensuring Diplomatic reception pinos may live in a free and unfettered that no one is left behind,” he added. society. He saluted Filipinos in Greece The Ambassador also cited the positive and in all parts of the world for the (Continued from page 1)…. Athens PE celebrates developments that have been happen- recognition and respect they have at- In the evening of the same day, some ing to the Philippines, including its 7.8- tained in the eyes of the global commu- percent GDP growth rate in the first 200 guests from the diplomatic com- nity for their competence, dedication, munity, the host government, mari- quarter of 2013, making it the fastest hard work, and genuine care and con- growing economy in Asia, the invest- time/shipping industry, the business cern for others. sector, the academe, research institu- ment grade ratings it received from tions and think tanks, and Filipino In line with this year’s credit-rating firms Fitch and Standard community leaders in Greece attended theme, “Kalayaan 2013: Ambagan and Poor’s and upgraded rating from the diplomatic reception at the Athens Tungo sa Malawakang Kaunlaran,” the the Japan Credit Rating Agency, Ledra Marriott Hotel. Ambassador emphasized the role that and that personal remittances from all Filipinos play in creating a stronger overseas Filipino workers reached an In his remarks, Ambassador Monteale- and stable republic. “Each one is all-time high of US$23.8 billion in gre recalled the events on 12 June called to contribute towards building a 2012.  1898 that led to the birth of the Philip- better Philippines, where growth is pine Republic, and reflected on the sac- sustainable, and where the fruits of rifices made by great Filipino patriots

(From left to right) Ambassador Meynardo LB. Montealegre together with Dean of Diplomatic Corps, Argentine Amb. Jorge Mastropietro; US Ambassador and Mrs. Daniel Bennett Smith; Indonesian Ambassador and Mrs. Benny Bahanadewa; Amb. Montealegre delivering his short message at the diplomatic reception held on 12 June 2013 at Ledra Marriot Hotel.

(Clockwise) “Sigay, Pilak at Habi” (shells, silver, and woven crafts) exhibit; Rice Kip- ing (Rice wafer) chandelier from Province ; and Officers and staff of the Philippine Embassy infront of the “Meet My Country Posters.”

More photos on page 7.

August 2013 PhilippiNew s 5 KALAYAAN 2012 Athens PE Celebrates Philippine Independence Day with the Filcom Leonor Mabagal read the Independence guests had their pick of Filipino dishes The Philippine Embassy together with Day messages of President Beningo S. and refreshments such as barbecue, di- the Filipino community in Athens held a Aquino III, SFA Albert Del Rosario and nuguan, , , various kakanin, whole-day outdoor celebration of the Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz re- sago’t and halo halo, and Philip- 115th Anniversary of Philippine Inde- spectively. pine made products from over 50 pendence on 23 June 2013 at the The Embassy personnel capped off the booths. Fokianos National Gymnasium in Zap- morning program by serenading the Overseas Welfare Workers Administra- pieo, Athens. Filcom with “Pipit” and “Isang Mundo,” tion (OWWA) and Pag-ibig Fund also had The celebration kicked-off with a parade which were well-received by the audi- booths providing services to the Filipino led by Ambassador Meynardo LB. Mon- ence. community. The Embassy booth show- tealegre and the Embassy staff and par- The afternoon program began with the cased its colorful “Meet My Country,” ticipated in by 38 various Filipino com- presentation of regional dresses from posters which attracted the attention of munity associations dressed in their selected members of the Filipino com- Greek visitors and Filipinos alike. Filipiniana attire. This was followed by a munity. Different associations delighted A tourism pavilion showcasing different “balik tanaw” re-enactment of the events the audience with cultural presentations tourist spots in the Philippines was set- that led to the proclamation of the Phil- such as Cordillera Ethnic Dance, Malong up by the Filipino community members ippine Independence in Kawit, Cavite, Dance, Pantomina, Bulaklakan, Kuratsa as an added attraction for tourists dur- leading up to the singing of the national and others, singing of Filipino folk and ing the event.  anthem. Ambassador Montealegre, Con- modern songs and Modern Arnis Exhibi- Below are some photos taken during sul General Charmaine Rowena Aviquivil tion. the event. and POLO OIC and Welfare Officer The Filipino community and foreign

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Athens PE Commemorates the DLSU Chorale Wins Awards in Greece Athens PE hosts the screening of 46th Anniversary of the ASEAN Filipino films “Emir &“Donsol

The Philippine Embassy in Athens, Greece The Philippine Embassy in Athens, in coopera- commemorated the “ASEAN Week,” by con- tion with the Film Development Council of the ducting a flag raising ceremony of the ASEAN Philippines, hosted two Filipino film screenings flag alongside the Philippine flag on 07 August of “Emir” and “Donsol”. 2013. The raising of the ASEAN Flag, accom- panied by the ASEAN Hymn, followed the Athens PE hosted the screening of “Emir” on raising of the Philippine Flag. The flag raising The De La Salle University Chorale won the 13 July 2013 at the Philippine Embassy. ceremony was followed by “Panunumpa ng Gold Medal and First Prize under the Chamber The members of the Filipino community en- Katapatan sa Watawat.” Choir Category in the International Choir Festi- joyed watching the movie. They were also val “Antonio Vivaldi” held from 27 June to 01 Ambassador Meynardo LB. Montealegre gave touched by the story of Amelia. July 2013 at Karpenissi, Greece and the Gold a brief speech focusing on the relevance of Medal and First Prize under the Chamber Choir On 03 July, Athens PE together with the Inde- ASEAN then and now. From a political asso- pendent Science and Technology (IST) Col- ciation, the regional grouping through the Category in the “International Choral Competi- tion of Sacred Music” held from 04 to 07 July in lege, hosted the film screening of “Donsol” at years grew stronger and developed into a IST College in Athens. more people-oriented regional organization Preveza, Greece. with two additional community pillars --- the The DLSU Chorale headed by Professor Economic Community and the Socio-Cultural Rodolfo F. Delarmente, the musical director, Community. called on Ambassador Merynardo LB. Mon- tealegre in Athens on 11 July 2013 at the Em- bassy. The group is composed of 17 student members of the DLSU. During the call, the DLSU Choir serenaded the Embassy officials with folk, ethnic and popular songs. The DLSU Chorale performed for the members of the Filipino community at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. They also performed during the Greek mass at the St. Denis Roman Catho- Screening of “Donsol” at IST College. Athens PE personnel at the flag raising cere- lic Church on 12 July 2013. Both performances The film screening was attended by guests mony during the ASEAN Week celebration held were coordinated by the members of the Fili- at the Embassy grounds. pino community.  from the diplomatic corps, the academe, and the Greek private sector. Some Filipino com- Ambassador Montealegre stressed that munity members from Bicol, the film’s location, ASEAN remains significant today, especially to Athens PE and Filcom Members also attended the screening. the Philippines. All ASEAN Member States are Celebrate the National Year of Rice A simple reception preceded the film showing, working to draft a Code of Conduct in the where guests were treated to Filipino dishes South China Sea in order to help maintain The Philippine Embassy in Athens together with and desserts such as adobo flakes, beef em- peace and security in the region. the Filipino Community members in the Athens, butido balls, , fruit salad, and Philippine From 29 to 30 June 2013, the four ASEAN Greece celebrated the National Year of Rice on mango juice.  Member States with diplomatic missions in 09 March 2013 at the Embassy grounds. Greece (Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, During the Embassy’s third regular Filcom meet- Athens PE Celebrates 27th Anniversary and Viet Nam) commemorated the ing, the Embassy presented a power point pres- of EDSA People Power Revolution 46th Anniversary of ASEAN through a two-day entation on the National Year of Rice from the The officers and staff of the Philippine Em- ASEAN Bowling Tournament and Fun Games. latter’s website, portion of the SONA of the The Philippine Embassy won first place in the bassy together with the Filipino community President on the goal to reach rice self- members in Athens commemorated the bowling tournament, tug-of-war, and children’s sufficiency, NYR briefer, facts about rice, and games. The Philippines also won third place in 27th Anniversary of EDSA People Power Revo- reminder on how the Filipinos could contribute to lution on 25 February 2013 at the premises of the individual sack race event, where Indone- their country in achieving rice self sufficiency. sia won first and second place.  the Embassy. The Embassy personnel and the Filcom mem- A flag raising ceremony led by Ambassador bers also feasted on rice-based products like Meynardo LB. Montealegre started the morn- Athens PE holds Month-Long , , , , etc., prepared by ing program, followed by the “Panunumpa ng Elections for Overseas Voters the Embassy and Filcom members to celebrate Katapatan sa Watawat”. After the ceremony, the event. the Ambassador delivered a brief message on Athens PE opened the Embassy to Embassy Personnel recited the Panatang Maka- the Philippines’ legacy to the world: that registered Filipino Overseas Voters palay after its regular flag raising ceremony on change can be attained without bloodshed. 11 March 2013 held at the Embassy. to cast their votes for the senato- As part of the evening program, Post showed rial/party list election from 13 April Athens PE also uploaded to its website and the video of President Aquino’s speech deliv- 2013 to 13 May 2013. posted at the consular section the tarpaulin ered during the 27th anniversary of the EDSA design and campaign facts of the NYR for the People Power Revolution at the EDSA People A total of 1,158 Overseas Voters cast information of our kababayans. Power Monument, followed by a the film show- their votes during this period.  For more information please visit ing of “Puso at Diwa ni Ninoy” at 6:00 p.m. at http.www.nyr2013.com.  the Embassy. 

August 2013 PhilippiNew s 7

The Philippine Embassy welcomes ... .. Ms. Liwayway Ferrer, who arrived in Athens on 05 July 2013 to as- Mr. Evan P. Abayon, who arrived in Mr. Solomon E. Balmeo, who arrived sume her duty as Administrative Athens on 26 December 2012 to in Athens on 06 January 2013 to Assistant of the Philippine Over- assume his duty as the Administrative assume his duty as the Communica- seas Labor Office, replacing Mr. Christopher Officer, Signing Officer and Attaché, tions, Protocol, Property, Records Prado. Officer and Attaché, replacing Mr. Nestor Magal- replacing Mr. Hermogenes Garcia. As an Administrative Assistant, Ms. Ferrer as- lones. Mr. Abayon joined the Department in 1991. Prior sists Welfare Officer Leonor Mabagal in the to his posting in Athens, he was cross-posted Mr. Balmeo joined the Department in 1978. Prior promotion of social protection and welfare of from the Philippine Embassy in Lisbon and was to his posting in Athens, he was assigned at the Overseas Filipino Workers in Greece. Philippine Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, Hanoi, previously assigned in Bangkok, Thailand. Ms. Ferrer attained a degree in Bachelor in Vietnam and Tehran, Iran. He served in the Department’s Office of Consular Business Education major in Business and Affairs from 1991 to 1995 and Office of the Asia He served in the Department’s CORATEL and Distributed Arts at the Polytechnic University of and Pacific Affairs from 1996 to 2001. Office of the Secretary. the Philippines.

Mr. Abayon is a B.S. Foreign Service graduate Mr. Balmeo is married to Lolita Bergantinos and Ms. Ferrer is from Manila. from the Lyceum of the Philippines.  they have four children.  Labor Attache Romulo Salud, who a n d bids farewell to … ended his tour of duty as Labor Attache to Greece in March 2013. Labatt Salud was previously as- Mr. Nestor Magallones, who ended Mr. Hermogenes Garcia, who ended signed in Cyprus and in Hong Kong his tour of duty as the Communica- his tour of duty as the Administrative SAR.  tions, Protocol, Property, Records Officer, Signing Officer and Attaché Officer and Attaché in August 2012. on October 2012. Mr. Christopher Prado ended his tour of duty as Administrative Assis- He was previously assigned at the Philippine He was previously assigned at the Philippine Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, Hanoi, Vietnam and tant of POLO-Greece on July 2013. Embassy in Tokyo and at the Philippine Consu- Mr. Prado attained a degree in Tehran, Iran.  late in Los Angeles, USA.  Bachelor of Science major in Management. 

More photos during the Diplomatic reception

(From left to right) Ambassador Montealegre together Philippine Honorary Consul in Crete, Mr. and Mrs. Alexandros Fasoulakis; with Philippine Honorary Consul in Patras Mrs. Anastasia Manalopoulou; and with some of the members of the Filipino community.

(From left to right) The 2013 Philippine Independence Day Posters and bookmarks which were given away to the guests during the event.

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We welcome Pinoy news! Send us your letters, news stories, press or photo Community News releases for publication in the newsletter via regular mail, e-mail.

Accredited Community Partners’ SSS Mem- bership drive. Ambassador Montealegre wel- comes SSS Milan Representative Thelma Villanueva-Venturanza during the ACP’s initiative to facilitate registration and reactivation of the SSS memberships of the Filipino community in Greece which was held on 28 April 2013 at the Philippine Embassy. More than a hundred OFWs attended the event. Filipino Bowlers in Athens Greece’s Athens PE Easter Monday Mass Spon- Sportsfest and Band Concert. Ambassador sorhip. Officers and staff of the Embassy Free Greek Language Lessons for Meynardo Montealegre delivering his mes- together with Sr. Emma Rivero and Rev. Fr. Filcom in Heraklion, Crete sage during the event of FILBAG which was Rhodel Nacional C.M. which was held on 29 held on 21 April 2013 at Fokianos Gymna- April 2013 at the Miraculous Medal Center in sium. Patission.

HonCon Alexandros Fasoulakis together with Greek teacher Ms. Karamato awarding the certificates to the graduates.

The Philippine Honorary Consul in Crete, Greece, Mr. Alexandros Fasoulakis, in coordi- KASAPI, Munting Nayon & DIWATA’s San- Bagong Kapwa Ko Pilipino sa Athens nation with the Department of Education and Greece’s Anniversary and Induction. Consul Lifelong Learning of the Municipality of Herak- tacruzan-Flores de Mayo Festival. lion and the office of the Deputy Mayor of the General Charmaine Rowena Aviquivil inducts Amb.Montealegre delivers his message to the Municipality of Heraklion, initiated Greek lan- Filcom members during the Santacruzan the newly elected officers of BKKPAO held on guage lessons free of charge, for the Filipino event held on 26 May 2013 at the Fokianos 08 June 2013 at the President Hotel. community members in Heraklion. Gymnasium. Classes were held from January to June 2013 at the 9th Elementary School at Heraklion, with around 31 Filipinos in attendance. During the graduation, which was held on 4 August 2013 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Herkalion, Crete, HonCon Fasoulakis and Ms. Eleni Karamato, Greek teacher pre- sented the certificates to the 19 graduates . Greek language for Filipinos in Crete was among the activities identified by the PHC and the Philippine Embassy in Athens to help OFWs in their day-to-day activities in Greece.  (left to right) KAPHILCA PHILIPPINE SCHOOL IN GREECE (PSG) 2013 Commencement Exer- cises. Dr. Yolanda Quijano, former Undersecretary of the Department of Education, as the Com- PhilippiNews mencement Guest Speaker delivers her message to the graduates of the KAPHILCA-PSG during the commencement exercise held on 29 June 2013 at Danaos Theater; Amb.Montealegre swears in the Is published by the Embassy of the Philippines in Athens, Greece. newly elected members of the Board of Trustees of KAPHILCA-PSG held on 12 July 2013 at the Phil- Minister and Consul General Charmaine Rowena C. Aviquivil Editor-in-Chief ippine Embassy. Second Secretary and Consul Sheila Marie C. Tario Managing Editor

Joanne M. David The new location of the Associate Editor

Byron Villanueva Photographer KAPHILCA-PSG is at Thimaton Address: 26 Antheon St., Paleo Psychico 15452 Athens, GREECE Polemou 15 Kareas, Vyronas. Tel. Nos.: +30 210 6721837 or 883 /2106722 011 Fax No.:+30 210 6721 872 Email: [email protected] Telefax No: 211 014 9970 Website:philembathens.gr

August 2013 PhilippiNew s 9

(Continued from page 1)… Meet My Country Ong’s modern Filipiniana tops made Cecilio Bagtas, Rufino Gomez and Manuel from banana fabric during an im- “Maning” Rodriguez, Sr. promptu demonstration on how Meet My Country posters and brochures these could be worn in different specially designed and printed for the ways. Embassy staff and family members serenaded the WIC ladies with a rendi- tion of classic and contem- porary Filipino musical numbers such as the folk ballad “Anak,” OPM love songs “Hanggang” and “Kahit Isang Saglit,” the Embassy personnel serenading the Samples of “Meet My Country” brochure WIC ladies with two Filipino songs.

occasion were also displayed and distrib- bassy’s economic and cultural diplo- uted during the event. macy program. For lunch, the ladies were led to the gar- Through Meet My Country, the Embassy den which evoked a fiesta atmosphere provided a virtual tour of the Philippines with colorful decorations, which and showcased the very best of the came all the way from Lucban, Que- country’s rich cultural heritage, specifi- zon. They enjoyed tasting cally, furniture and home furnishing; which included beef balls, fashion wear, accessories and indigenous , spring rolls, palabok rolls, and fabric, fiestas, food, music and visual arts. artfully presented as starters, main courses of pancit sotanghon, chicken The WIC ladies were given a glimpse of adobo, at sitaw, and the country’s tourist attractions and , and Filipino sweets and deli- were enticed to visit the Philippines with cacies such as suman, puto, sapin-sapin, videos of the catchy “It’s More Fun in the pichi-pichi, and halo-halo. They also sam- Philippines” and El Gamma Penumbra’s pled other Filipino pica-pica and snack creative shadow performance of “Piliin items such as dried mangoes, , mo ang Pilipinas.” The Ambassador uraro cookies, polvoron, banana chips and The WIC ladies enjoying the delectable Filipino cuisine Rice Kiping (Rice Wafer) from Quezon prepared by Chef Mandy Salonga.

folk song “Ang Pipit,” and the Metro Pop festival winner, “Isang Mundo, Isang Awit.” The ladies toured the resi- dence and were impressed at the fine craftsmanship of Ambassador Montealegre together with Mrs. Filipino furniture which Anthea Gavoyannis, WIC President (left) and blends antique wood such as Mrs. Christina Butler, Activities Officer. molave, kamagong pili tarts. and narra, with indige- presented a profile of the Philip- nous materials and mod- The WIC members were presented with pines and briefly discussed its ern designs, with empha- freshwater pearl earrings which they ap- preciated. history, politics and government, sis on style, comfort and economy, people and society. functionality. They mar- The WIC ladies gave glowing comments on veled at the exhibit all aspects of the event, and enthusiasti- The WIC ladies expressed keen of indigenous fabric and cally expressed their admiration for the interest in the Filipiniana attire woven textiles such as Philippines’ rich cultural heritage. They worn by the Embassy officers Piña, tinalak, sina- sinamay, t’nalak, and ina- all said that they will never forget the and staff, who took the opportu- may, inabel, banana bel, and accessories with amazing, one-of-a-kind experience they nity to describe the style and and silk intricate ethnic and mod- had at Meet My Country: The Philip- design of their Barong Tagalog, ern designs, which were pines. A participant said, “Thank you for Maria Clara, mestiza dress, ki- strategically displayed as one enters and the very interesting presentation you gave mona and baro’t saya, the delicate fabric exits the residence. They also closely ex- us about your wonderful country, which I used such as piña, jusi, abaca and banana amined the Ambassador’s collection of already decided to visit soon! I enjoyed and the hand-embroidered details of paintings made by Filipino contemporary your food and your lovely smiles!!!” each attire. A number of the ladies artists such as Manuel Baldemor, Em- gamely agreed to model Dita Sandico manuel Garibay, Edmund Bendijo, Aris

10 PhilippiNews August 2013 Consular Updates R. A. 9225 (Citizenship Retention and

ANNOUNCEMENT Re-acquisition Act of 2003)

The general public is advised The Embassy of the Philippines in (Derivative Citizenship), the unmar- that the Greek Ministry of For- Athens wishes to inform the general ried children, whether legitimate, eign Affairs now requires that public that natural- born Filipinos illegitimate or adopted, below Philippine public documents who have lost their Filipino citizen- eighteen (18) years of age, of those that have to be presented in ship through naturalization in a for- who re-acquire Philippine citizen- the territory of the Hellenic eign country, have the opportunity ship under this Act shall also be Republic should henceforth be to retain or re-acquire their Filipino deemed citizens of the Philippines. legalized exclusively by the citizenship through R. A. 9225 Under the act, Filipinos who re- competent Hellenic Consular (Citizenship Retention and Re- acquire or retain Filipino citizen- authorities in the Philippines acquisition Act of 2003). ship may once again enjoy full civil, (i.e. Greek Embassy in Manila). According to Section 4 of R.A. 9225 economic and political rights under Thank you. existing laws of the Philippines. 

Pasuguan ng Pilipinas sa Gresya Nagdiwang ng Buwan ng Wika

saw suka, jack en poy, jack- stone, at pa- bitin. Ang mga nanalo ay binigyan ng mga meda- lya at mga produktong pinoy. May mga premyo ring binigay sa mga di Luksong Tinik Ang mga kawani ng Pasuguan ng Pilipinas sa Gresya kasama ang mga mi- pinalad na yembro ng komunidad ng Pilipino sa Athina sa pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng manalo. Wika noong ika 7 ng Agosto 2013 sa Pasuguan. Matapos ang Ang Pasuguan ng Pilipinas sa Gresya ay palaro ay tinuruan naman ang mga bata nagdiwang ng Buwan ng Wikang Pam- ng mga pambatang awit tulad ng Bahay bansa noong ika-7 ng Agosto 2013 sa Kubo, Paa-Tuhod, Kung Ikaw ay Ma- loob ng Pasuguan. saya, at Tong Tong Tong Pakitong- Nagsimula ang programa sa pagtaas ng kitong. Nananghalian ang mga bata ng bandila ng Pilipinas at panunumpa sa spaghetti pinoy style at manok watawat. Sumunod dito ang isang na siyang patok na patok sa kanila. maiksing mensahe ni Ambasador Ang programa sa hapon ay sinimulan Meynardo LB. Montealegre. sa pagbabasa ng mga maiikling kwen- Ang programa para sa buong araw ay tong pambata tulad ng Tiktaktok at Tumbang Preso inilaan ng Pasuguan para sa mga ka- Pikpakbum, Isang Mayang Uwak, at Si bataang Pilipino. Layunin ng Pasuguan Hinlalaki. Inakto ng mga kawani ng ang magbahagi ng kaalaman sa mga Pasuguan ang mga kwentong binasa na kabataang Pilipino sa Gresya ukol sa siyang kinatuwa ng mga bata. Matapos Wikang Pambansa at paggamit ng saril- ang kwentuhan, nagkaroon ng palitan ing wika. May dalawampu’t dalawang ng mga katanungan at kasagutan ukol (22) bata mula apat (4) hanggang labin- sa mga kwentong binasa. Natapos ang dalawang (12) gulang na lumahok sa araw sa paggawa ng bandila ng Pilipi- programa, na karamihan ay anak ng nas at pagturo ng tamang pag-awit ng mga Filipino sa Gresya. Lupang Hinirang. Sa umaga ay natutunan ng mga bata Natuwa ang mga bata gayundin ang Si Ambasador Montealegre na nagkakaloob ang mga larong lahi gaya ng luksong kanilang mga magulang sa programang ng mga medalya sa mga nanalong kalahok. tinik, pitik bulag, tumbang preso, saw- inihanda ng Pasuguan. 

11 PhilippiNew s August 2013 LABOR PAGE POLO in Action

Free Medical Health Screening for OFWs in POLO-OWWA organizes Savings and Investment Forum for OFWs in Greece held on 02 Thessaloniki, Greece in celebration of 2013 June 2013 at the President Hotel; Mr. Jomar Cortez, Manager of RCBC-Athens as one of Migrant Workers’ Day held on 10 June 2013 the resource speakers.

(left to right) Ambassador Meynardo LB. Montealegre delivers his inspirational message to the graduates of POLO-OWWA’s Skills En- hancement Training for winter session 2013 held on 2 June at the President Hotel; Awarding of certificates; The graduates of Care giv- ing, Greek Language and Computer Class.

Starting 01 September 2013, the office of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) 16 Stranded Seafarers will be located at 10 Fthiotidos St. Ambelokipi Athens, Greece 11523 The contact de- Repatriated tails are as follows: Tel. No.: 210 698 3335; Email address: [email protected]

ATN Officer Claire Bonabon-Dankers, ex- treme left and Welfare Officer Leonor C. Mabagal, 3rd from right, pose with the last batch of repatriated Filipino Seafarers of Ikarian Moon Shipping Co. Ltd at Athens International Airport on April 24, 2013).

After a-month long negotiation of Post with Epsilon Maritime Agency Ltd. Hellas, the sixteen (16) stranded Filipino Seafarers on board four (4) Greek-owned cargo vessels (M/V NICOLAOS M, M/V GIANNES M, M/V TRIANTAFYLLOS M and M/V ARGYRO M) of the bankrupt Ikarian Moon Shipping Co. Ltd. were finally repatriated following success- ful settlement of their unpaid salaries for 8 months. They were separately stranded for 5 months in the ports of Piraeus and Thes- saloniki, Greece and Malta together with other foreign national crew. The last batch of repatriated crew on board M/V Nicolaos M based in Piraeus Port have expressed gratitude to the Philippine gov- ernment for the assistance and support extended them, in behalf of all stranded crew.

August 2013 PhilippiNews 12

Filipino Community in Nicosia, Cyprus Celebrates Cyprus Corner 115th Independence Day and Migrant Workers Day

(left photo) Ambassador Montealegre (center) views the mini-exhibit of Rosita Sumagaysay (2nd from right), a budding Filipino painter. Also shown are (from left): Minister and Consul General Charmaine Rowena C. Aviquivil, Philippine Honorary Consul to Nicosia She- maine Bushnell-Kyriakides, Welfare Officer Sylvia Valdez and Ms. Sumagaysay’s employer. (Middle photo) Around 500 OFWs based in Cyprus graduate from OWWA Reintegration Training Courses .(Right photo) Rosita’s paintings on exhibit during the event. Ambassador Meynardo LB. Montealegre, presentations and cultural perform- and Beauty Care, Beadwork, and Ball- Philippine Ambassador to Cyprus resi- ances. Various FilCom organizations room Dancing under OWWA’s Reintegra- dent in Athens, accompanied by Minister showcased their talents in special num- tion Training Program. and Consul General Charmaine Rowena bers such as a group rendition of Rosita Sumagaysay, a budding Filipina C. Aviquivil, attended the joint celebra- “Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo,” inter- painter whose art lessons were spon- tion by the Filipino Community in Cy- pretative dance of “Tayo’y mga Pinoy,” a sored by her employer, also held a mini prus of the 115th Philippine Independ- short musical skit on the harana, and art exhibit at the venue. ence Day and Migrant Workers Day held folk/ethnic dances such as the Tinikling, In his message, the Ambassador empha- on Sunday, 07 July 2013 at the European Cariñosa, Pamaypay ng Maynila, Cordil- sized the role of every Filipino in creat- University Cyprus in Nicosia. lera Warrior Dance, Bakya Dance, among ing a strong and stable republic. He also Filipinos not only from Nicosia, but also others. called upon the OFWs in Cyprus to put from Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos and The event also recognized some 500 their newly-acquired skills and learnings other parts of Cyprus commemorated OFWs who completed short courses on to good use, in order that these may the “Araw ng Pasasalamat, Pagkakaisa at Greek Language, Basic Computer, Basic pave the way for their brighter future.  Pagkilala” with a day-long celebration of First Aid, Leadership, Business Counsel- nationalistic and migration-themed ing and Financial Literacy, Hair Cutting

Ambassador Montealegre’s Athens PE Conducts Three Calls on Cypriot Officials Consular Outreach Ser- (First photo) vices in Cyprus The Philippine Embassy in Athens Ambassador Montealegre called on Am- conducted three consular outreach bassador Andreas Mavroyiannis, MFA services in Nicosia, Cyprus from 1 to Cyprus Permanent Secretary, on 08 July 3 March 2013; 16 to 20 May 2013 2013 to discuss ways to further and 06 to 08 September 2013. strengthen PHL-Cyprus cooperation. Services were also extended by Pag- (Second Photo) IBIG. Ambassador Meynardo LB. Montealegre The consular outreach missions nd (2 from left) called on Cyprus’ Labor and were conducted with the full sup- Social Insurance Minister Zeta Emiliani- port of Philippine Honorary Consul nd dou (2 from right) on 08 July 2013 to in Cyprus Shemaine Bushnell- discuss the welfare of some 16,000 Fili- Kyriakides, Welfare Officer Sylvia pino workers in Cyprus and follow-up the Valdez, and the Filipino Community status of the Philippines-Cyprus Social in Cyprus. Security Agreement. Also shown in are: Labor Ministry Permanent Secretary (left) and Consul General Charmaine Rowena C. Aviquivil (right).

(Third photo)

Ambassador Montealegre called on Cy- prus’ Auditor General Chrystalla Geor- ghadji on 09 July 2013 to present the PHL candidature to UNBOA. The Consular Team at work.