Mr. Elbert Gargar Trustee and Host and Mr. Jose Renato “Pepe” Dacudao, DJ of radio programme Generation FM 106.7 MHZ in Oamaru, South Island celebrated the 1st anniversary of their radio programme on 26 April 2014. A Filipino community gathering was held at the Pembrook School Hall featuring musical entertainment, dance performances, accomplishment report and messages from Philippine Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez and His Worship Gary Kircher, Mayor of Waitaki. Mayoress Kerry, wife of Mayor Kircher, Ms. Cecilia Baxter, Chairperson, Waitaki Multi-Cultural Council, Inc., Filipinos, friends from New Zealand and guests attended the anniversary event.

Ms. Mayette Maling-Cope and Ms. Rowena V. De Joux marked the anniversary of radio programme “Tinig Pinoy” at 999 AM Access Manuwatu, Palmerston North on 3 May 2014. They thanked “everyone who has been part and parcel of the broadcast production that is Tinig Pinoy today. Without all of you, there wouldn’t be a broadcast every Sunday.”

In reply to the deep appreciated conveyed by Mr. Gargar and Ms. Maling-Cope to the Philippine Embassy Team for the continuing support and cooperation with them, Ambassador Benavidez congratulated Generation FM 106.7 MHZ and “Tinig Pinoy” 999 AM Access Manuwatu as the hosts and prime movers who continue to do much in generating a wider reach of listeners and guests, engaging with and supporting Filipinos and the wider communities, featuring individual and community accomplishments, functions and events, promoting community education through basic radio journalism and strengthening linkages with multicultural organizations, local authorities and business networks.

“We at the Philippine Embassy are pleased and blessed to have you as our vital partners in bringing Filipinos in the North and South Islands and across New Zealand closer to home through news, music, updates, announcements and other information of relevance and interest to its listeners. Through the broadcast media you are able to reach out to the Filipino community, New Zealanders and other groups and stakeholders and assist the Philippine Embassy connect with the Filipinos. Generation FM 106.7 MHZ and “Tinig Pinoy” 999 AM Access Manuwatu are continuing excellent platforms for doing these and promoting the culture, heritage, artistry and creativity of the Filipinos and the Philippines as home to world class talents,” Ambassador Benavidez stated.

She assured them of the Philippine Embassy’s continuing support and cooperation and commended Generation FM 106.7 MHZ and “Tinig Pinoy” 999 AM Access Manuwatu as they bring joy and delight to their listeners and continue to soar high and make waves on air in the years to come.