As the Philippine Embassy continues to promote and recognize the positive and vital contributions of the Filipino community and join them in their events and functions in New Zealand, Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez and the Philippine Embassy in Wellington together with their families attended the Ilonggo community Halloween event on 01 November 2014 at Maungaraki Hall, Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand

The Halloween celebration dubbed “Iririmaw Taton – Ilonggo Kita Party” began with a mass to commemorate the passing and the eternal rest of loved ones. This was followed by a fun-filled and exciting programme.

In her remarks, Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez highlighted the important role of the Filipino community in the observance and sharing of the country’s Christian faith, cultural heritage, strong sense of community, compassion and care. She thanked Ms. Nieva Lim, Ms. Rolyn Demafelis, Ms. Judith Mendoza and the Ilonggo community and friends for their hard work, dedication, hospitality and generosity in organizing the event for children and adults alike.

A wide variety of traditional Filipino food such as Adobo, Pansit, Dinuguan, “Lechon” and Taho were shared among the guests.

They were entertained with games and raffle draws. The Halloween costume competition among the children and adults was a big hit and the winners were awarded with various prizes.

Ms. Nieva Lim also introduced several Ilonggo business owners from the Filipino community to Ambassador Benavidez. Their entrepreneurial success, skills and talents were acknowledged and appreciated by the Philippine Embassy and the Filipino community in New Zealand.