RP Embassy in Bangkok Serves Filipinos in Phuket, 4 September 2010

Bangkok, 4 September 2010 - A consular team from the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok headed by Ambassador Linglingay F. Lacanlale rendered consular extension services for the Filipino community (Filcom) in Phuket on 4 September. The Embassy organized the extension service in coordination with the Association of Filipinos in Thailand – Southern Region Chapter headed by its president Ms. Bernardita Sanchez. The extension service was held at the Metropole Hotel.

Ambassador Lacanlale was accompanied by Vice Consul Princess Tomas-Tayao, Consular Assistants Roberto R. Reyes, Pilar Melizza Presina T. Binuya and Sharon A. Primavera, and Welfare Officer Mr. Hector Cruz, Jr.

The team rendered passport services, legalization of documents and onsite issuance of overseas employment documents.

During the Embassy’s service, the consular team also held a dialogue with the Filipino community. Ambassador Lacanlale discussed the need for unity among members of the Filipino community. She also urged them to regularly update, and communicate with, the Embassy on major issues and concerns affecting the Filcom. The Filcom, many of whom work as English teachers in local schools, musicians in leading hotels, resorts and spas, and fishermen, shared their stories, experiences, and concerns with the Ambassador.

Mr. Cruz briefed the participants on the package of OWWA benefits now available to Filipinos in Thailand. He also informed them about his office’s ongoing information campaign and membership drive among all Filipino workers in Thailand regardless of their immigration status.

The day before, Ambassador Lacanlale called on Mr. Wichai Phraisa-Ngop, Governor of Phuket Province. The Ambassador thanked the Governor for allowing Filipinos to contribute to the province’s economic growth. The Governor replied that the province of Phuket has not had any problems with the Filipino community, and that the Filcom members are contributing positively to the social diversity and economic growth of the province.

Ambassador Lacanlale also met separately with Police Colonel Panuwat Ruamrak, Phuket Immigration Superintendent, and Police Colonel Chalit Kaewyaratana, Deputy Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police Division. Both officials expressed appreciation for the Ambassador’s visit. They also noted that there are no major issues or concerns involving Filipinos in the province. The Ambassador expressed hope that the meetings would be the start of good working relations between the Embassy and the Phuket Immigration and Police offices. The two officials assured the Ambassador of their full cooperation. END

Ambassador Lacanlale (L) pays a courtesy call on Immigration Superintendent Police Colonel Panuwat Ruamrak (R) at the Phuket Immigration Office, 3 September 2010.

Ambassador Lacanlale presents a token of appreciation to Honorable Wichai Phraisa-Ngop, Governor of Phuket, during the Ambassador’s courtesy call on the latter at the Governor’s Office, 3 September 2010.

Ambassador Lacanlale (R) presents a token of appreciation to Police Colonel Chalit Kaewyaratana, Deputy Commander of the Phuket Provincial Police Division, during their meeting at the Police Headquarters, 3 September 2010.

Ambassador Lacanlale (middle) replies to queries during the open forum of the Embassy’s consular extension service for the Filipino Community in Phuket. Joining her at the table are OWWA Officer Mr Cruz, Jr (L) and AFT-SRC President Ms. Bernardita Sanchez (R). The event was held at Metropole Hotel in Phuket on 4 September 2010.

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