In line with the Philippine Embassy’s continuing priority to reach out and engage with the Filipino community throughout New Zealand, Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez hosted a Gender and Development Orientation/Interaction on Immigration, Dual Citizenship and Related Matters at “Ang Bahay” (the Ambassador’s official residence) on 20 December 2014. Nearly 50 men and women from the Filipino community, a majority of whom work at the different Diplomatic Missions in Wellington, Philippine Embassy personnel and families attended the Orientation. The guest speakers during the forum were Atty. Edgardo P. Atienza and Third Secretary and Vice Consul Glenn Joseph Q. Obach.

Minister and Consul General Arlene Gonzales-Macaisa welcomed the guests and spoke on the significance of the occasion and moderated the programme. Ms. Rubianca Angelica H. Benavidez, the Ambassador’s daughter, led the opening prayer. Ambassador Benavidez warmly welcomed the Orientation guests to the Residence where Filipino ambience, atmosphere and furnishings reflect the warmth of friendship and the renowned hospitality of the Filipino people and thanked them for taking time to be part of the Orientation. In her remarks, Ambassador Benavidez stated that the Orientation is aimed at ensuring the welfare and well-being of Filipinos and enhancing their knowledge on matters of importance and interest to them during their stay in New Zealand.

Atty. Atienza enhanced the participants’ knowledge, insights and information regarding Citizenship and Immigration Laws in New Zealand. Vice Consul Obach delivered a talk on Republic Act No. 9225 - Citizenship Retention and Re-Acquisition Act Of 2003. He explained that R.A. 9225 covers former natural-born Filipino citizens who have lost their citizenship through naturalization as citizens of a foreign country. Vice Consul Obach expounded on the coverage, procedures and requirements of applying for dual citizenship and Overseas Voting Registration.

The talks of Atty. Atienza and Vice Consul Obach elicited interactive discussions and sharing of views on New Zealand’s immigration laws and the rights of migrants, as well as clarifications on R.A. 9225, its procedures and requirements, and the Overseas Voting Registration. The Orientation was followed by a Christmas Dinner Fellowship.

Atty. Atienza and participants thanked Ambassador Benavidez for a highly informative and interactive Orientation. Guests, the Philippine Embassy Team and families had an enjoyable evening of fellowship partaking of special “Ang Bahay” cuisine and distinctive Filipiniana experience and sharing of musical talents through the WOW Magic Sing Microphone.