02 September 2016 – Over 500 Filipinos gathered recently at the Parc Bagatelle in Marseille, France to celebrate Philippine Independence Day for the first time.  The Filipinos who joined the celebration represent religious and regional organizations based in Marseille and other adjoining cities.

The event was primarily organized by 1 Ganap Guardians in cooperation with the local government of Marseille.

French people also participated in the event by watching the many cultural performances and partaking in Filipino cuisine.

Marseille's representative to the event, Mr. Gérard Vitalis, remarked that as the officer in charge of community projects for the municipality, he has come to know the Filipino community over time. He added that he cherishes the values that the Filipinos stand for, which are family, community, and service. 

Philippine Honorary Consul to Marseille, Jean Louis Poirier, said that the Filipinos in Marseille are a discreet community and that the point of this event is for them to be seen by the French administration to show that they can be a strong economic force.

Philippine Ambassador to France Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, noted that this event and the support it received from the Marseille Government showed that the Filipinos are valued members of the community.  "Filipinos have integrated themselves very well in Marseille society and have shown that they are productive partners of the French people." END