GOVPH

An Evening of Words: Philippine Embassy in France Showcases Literary Brilliance of Celebrated Filipino Authors

Philippine Embassy officials, led by Ambassador Junever M. Mahilum-West (center right), with Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr. (center left), Ms. June Dalisay, and Ms. Criselda Yabes.  

In anticipation of the 2024 National Literature Month (NLM), the Philippine Embassy in Paris held a literary reading of the works of multi-awarded writer Mr. Jose “Butch” Dalisay, Jr. and critically acclaimed author Ms. Criselda Yabes on 26 March 2024 at the chancery. 

With his year’s NLM theme: “Ang Panitikan at Kapayapaan”, the reading showcased the country’s contemporary literary heritage and demonstrated the power of literature in describing the Philippine experience

Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr. reads his excerpts from his books and his poems to literary enthusiasts

Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr., a 16-time Palanca Awardee in five literary genres, read his work Killing Time in A Warm Place and his poems that capture the Filipinos’ migration experience. The readings resonated with the audience, as he drew a vibrant verbal imagery of the Filipino identity and experience. 

Francisco Balagtas lifetime achievement awardee Ms. Criselda Yabes read excerpts fron her works Below the Crying Mountain, a weave of love stories with a backdrop of the Muslim secessionist uprising in the 1970s, and Sarena’s Story: The Loss of a Kingdom which recounts the story of the Sulu Sultanate. Her works as a literary journalist and author explored the constant struggle for peace in the south.

Guest writers Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr. and Ms. Criselda Yabes respond to audiences’ queries and interventions in an interactive discussion.  

An interactive discussion between the guest authors and the audience followed, with Mr. Dalisay and Ms. Yabes sharing their personal inspirations and techniques especially with aspiring writers. They also exchanged perspectives on various topics such as the impact of technological developments on literature, educating the youth, and key social concerns in the country. 

Guest authors and Embassy officials with some attendees at the reading event.

Mr. Jose Dalisay, Jr. and and his spouse Ms. June Mercy Poticar Dalisay are currently guest lecturers of the Instituts d'études politiques (Sciences Po Paris).

END.
 

GROWING PROSPERITY AND HARVESTING FINANCIAL GROWTH: AN EMBASSY FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT SEMINAR IN PARIS

23 March 2024 - The Philippine Embassy in Paris partnered with Vistaland International Marketing and organized a workshop focused on enabling our kababayans on how to grow their money and become financially stable. 

The seminar featured speakers who highlighted a change in money mindset and how to spot opportunities in investing in the Philippines. Presentations were devoted to positive economic news on the Philippines and opportunities for personal and entrepreneurial wealth growth.

Speaker Ringgo Anacan discussed the change of mindset on money, recognizing that it should not be viewed as the root of evil but also that it cannot be denied its value. The secret lies in wisely managing money and making it work for the individual.

Speaker Danilo Calingasan explained the positive impact of the age dependency ratio and the demographic dividend on the economic performance and opportunities available in the Philippines. He presented economic data from international organizations showing the promising trajectory of the Philippines as an attractive investment destination, including reports that it is forecasted to be one of the largest economies by 2075.

Deputy Chief of Mission Eric Tamayo likened the investment process to a plant cycle, sowing seeds first before reaping the harvest. Similarly in an investment, one must start small and once it matures, the profits may be harnessed. Through this seminar, Filipinos can learn to adopt strategies on growing and investing their hard-earned money in the Philippines.

The Embassy also briefed the audience on the Bagong Pilipinas campaign launched under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration characterizing the brand of governance and leadership of a principled, accountable and dependable government committed towards the attainment of comprehensive policy reforms and full economic recovery, aiming to realize the goals and aspirations of every Filipino.

For the Filipino Community in France and Filipinos Traveling to France

PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN PARIS HOSTS GEWE LECTURE IN CELEBRATION OF THE 2024 NATIONAL WOMEN’S MONTH

On 15 March 2024, the Philippine Embassy in Paris, in celebration of the 2024 National Women's Month, hosted a lecture on gender equality and women's empowerment, addressing issues facing women and girls.

Sen. Risa Hontiveros, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality, in her video message emphasized the importance of investing in women and supporting their rights.

Distinguished speakers, including Atty. Khay Ann Magundayao-Borlado, Officer-in-Charge of the Philippine Commission on Women and Professor Brenda Alegre from Science Po, provided insightful presentations on laws and treaties concerning women's rights and fostering inclusivity and equality.

The event provided a platform for Embassy personnel and the Filipino Community in France to deepen their understanding of challenges faced by women and girls and explore strategies for empowerment.