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In line with the Philippine Embassy’s support for the positive contributions and laudable initiatives of the Filipino community in sharing their musical talents and creativity for the benefit of the Filipinos back home, Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez attended the “Like & Share: A Concert of Gratitude” held on 14 February 2015 at the Westlake Auditorium, North Shore, Auckland, New Zealand. As a special Valentine’s night for the benefit of the Clergy Health Care Fund of the Diocese of Malaybalay, Bukidnon in the Philippines, the spotlight was on much applauded and greatly appreciated musical performances of Fr. Elric Jorquia, fondly called “The Singing Priest” with the Mythical 5, Nica Israel, KIS, Reynald Ricafrente, Sinag and special guests, namely, Fr. Mario Dorado, Fr. Gilbert Ramos and Rev. Carlos Guleng. The SAMUTSARI Philippine Cultural Society organized the fund raising concert where the spirit of sharing, caring and giving very much evident in the Filipino community and friends throughout New Zealand took centre stage.

Ambassador Benavidez commended the organizers of the Concert led by Honorary Vice-Consul Virginia Araneta-Russell, Fr. Elric Jorquia and the talented performers and all those who have given their time, talent and support for a worthy cause. Through the Concert imbued with kindness, selflessness, volunteerism and compassion, each song, each segment and each offering allowed the audience to feel the heartbeat of GOD in reaching out to people and supporting charitable and humanitarian projects. “Time and again, it is said that music, songs, rhythms and melodies are the sound tracks to the Filipinos’ heart and windows to our soul. They mirror our celebratory spirit, creativity and capability to give thanks and serve as channels to make a positive impact and distinctive difference in the lives of people back home in the Philippines, in New Zealand and wherever they may be,” Ambassador Benavidez stated.

The Philippine Embassy is blessed to have them as vital partners in strengthening the strong sense of community and connectivity among Filipinos, promoting the vibrancy of Filipino cultural and spiritual heritage, demonstrating the spirit of “Bayanihan” (volunteerism and togetherness for the common good) especially for those in need and enhancing the Philippines’ people based relationship with New Zealand. To support the fund raising project, Ambassador Benavidez donated the latest WOW Magic Sing karaoke set as one of the major raffle draws.