02 July 2014 - Philippine Ambassador to Mexico Catalino R. Dilem, Jr., attended the 116th anniversary celebration of Philippine Independence and oversaw the first overseas voters registration in Panama on June 15. He was accompanied by Mr. Randy S. Hilot, deputized Commission on Elections representative, as Voter Registration Machine (VRM) Operator in Mexico and in charge of handling the registration of qualified voters under the Embassy’s jurisdiction.
The Independence Day celebration and overseas voters registration were held concurrently at the Vista del Mar in Panama City. The event begins with the singing of the national anthem by the Filipino community followed by a ceremonial toast. Fifty-two (52) people attended the occasion, including seven foreign nationals.
The Independence Day messages of President Benigno S. Aquino III, Vice President Jejomar C. Binay and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario were read before the audience.
In his speech, Ambassador Dilem talked about the importance of Filipinos working overseas and their contribution to the Philippine economy. He also encouraged them to continue their hard work and to support their families back home. Likewise, Ambassador encouraged the Filipino community to participate in the voters registration and exercise their right of suffrage especially in the 2016 national elections.
During the activity, the Filipino community presented several performances and fun games. Filipino dishes were also served during the occasion.
The VRM Operator was able to register 27 qualified overseas applicants. Most of the eligible registrants came from provinces in Mindanao.
The mobile overseas voters registration in Panama is part of Embassy’s effort in intensifying its campaign to register as many qualified overseas voters as possible under its jurisdiction. END