Philippine Ambassador Jesus S. Domingo called on Her Worship, South Waikato (New Zealand) Mayor Jenny Shattock, on 28 April 2017, at the District Council. Ambassador Domingo was warmly received by Mayor Shattock who expressed her desire to forge closer ties between the South Waikato District Council, the Embassy of the Philippines and the Filipino Community. In particular, she seeks opportunities for partnerships in the fields of economic, cultural, social, education and leadership, citing “the need to make the most of our relationship for the betterment of our whole community”. The Mayor welcomed the “Diplomatic Chamber” framework of the Embassy, which links local governments, businesses and community organizations of the Philippines and New Zealand.

Mayor Shattock shared her high regard for the Filipino community, especially those in the dairy sector, whose presence and contribution has become increasingly valuable to the South Waikato Region. Recognizing their leadership potential, she called on Filipinos to join the political process and run for District Council seats. She also lauded the Embassy for being considerate and attentive to the situation and needs of its nationals.

The Mayor strongly supports the empowerment of the Kiwinoy Community, and is committed “to have a Filipino elected member sitting around our Council table making decisions for our whole community towards a true multicultural representation.”

Ambassador Domingo thanked Mayor Shattock for recognizing the Filipino’s potential, not just as farmworkers, but also in the overall leadership of South Waikato. Likewise, he thanked her for her sustained support and assistance to his compatriots. Ms. Maricel L. Tagle, Secretary of the North Island Filipino Farmers Association-NZ (NIFFA-NZ) joined the call, representing the Filipino Community.

The meeting transpired alongside the Embassy’s consular outreach mission on 28-30 April 2017 in Tokoroa, the biggest town of the South Waikato region and seat of its District Council to extend mobile consular services to the local Filipino community in Waikato and the surrounding areas in the North Island.