Filipino Association in Russia Brings Christmas Cheer to Orphans
Orphaned children from the Orion-Kitezh Community are presented gifts by the Filipino Association in Russia, led by the children of members of the organization (in photo, front row). Photo by S. Pamocol
14 December 2017 MOSCOW — The Filipino Association in Russia (F.A.R.) held their Year-End Activities at the Philippine Embassy in Moscow on December 10. These include their 3rd Flue Vaccination Drive for the year, administered by registered nurses among the FAR members; a seminar on acquiring medical insurance policy for foreigners, delivered by Lexigrant; and presentation of gifts to the orphaned children from the Kitezh-Orion Community. The year-end celebration was the first project of newly-inducted FAR President Louise Reymond Corpus.
The day-long event was held in the style of a classic Filipino Christmas party, with music, dancing, gift-giving, parlor games, and a lot of savory Filipino dishes prepared by members of the organization. It was highlighted by the celebration of Holy Mass for the Catholic members of the Filipino community, presided by Rev. Gilles Cuama.
During the celebration, the incoming FAR officers were also inducted. The oath-taking was administered by Third Secretary and Vice Consul Catherine Alpay. Ms. Alpay also took the opportunity to convey the Embassy’s appreciation and continued support to FAR’s activities which benefit the Filipino community in Russia and contribute to stronger Philippine-Russian relations on a people-to-people level.
The Filipino Association in Russia (F.A.R.) is one of several Filipino Community organizations in Russia and has been existing for several years. It is best known for hosting yearly activities such as the FAR Women’s Day reception, Sports Festival, various fund-raising drives for charitable causes and medical and dental missions with the support of its strong membership. The organization often partners with and supports the activities of the Philippine Embassy in Moscow. END
For more information, visit www.moscowpe.dfa.gov.ph.
Clockwise from left photo: The emcees of the evening: newly-inducted FAR President Louise Reymond Corpus (right) and Ms. Leonora Mamaclay (left); members of FAR who participated in the day-long activities at the Philippine Embassy ballroom; Third Secretary and Vice Consul Catherine Alpay administers the oath to the new officers of FAR for 2018. Photos by S. Pamocol
Left photo: FAR, represented by its Assistant Treasurer, presents a cash donation to the Kitezh-Orion Community for orphans, which was raised at FAR’s shoe sale donation drive held earlier in the year. Right photo: The children from the Kitezh-Orion Community perform the Russian version of the popular song, “Let It Go.” Photos by S. Pamocol