21 September 2016 — The Philippine Consulate General in Milan met with leaders and members of the Association of Filipino Community in Vicenza in Veneto Region on September 18, as part of its continuing efforts to engage and reach out to overseas Filipinos in Northern Italy. Consul Conrado Demdem, Jr. was given a warm welcome by Vicenza FilCom President Mr. Ronald Atienza and Filipino chaplain Fr. Paulino Bumanglag at the sprawling grounds of the Parish Church of Christ the King. The auspicious meeting was held during the Feast Day of San Lorenzo Ruiz, when Filipinos from different parts of Northern Italy gathered and joined in the celebration of the feast of the first Filipino saint, himself an overseas Filipino worker.  

In his meeting with FilCom leaders, Consul Demdem learned of the various projects being implemented by the Filipino Community in Vicenza to strengthen camaraderie among its members, protect their youth from vices, and assist kababayans in the Philippines especially those affected by natural calamities.   He applauded the Filipino Community for these worthy initiatives, and conveyed not only the Consulate’s gratitude but also its hope that such efforts would be sustained and expanded to benefit many Filipinos.

Moreover, in a simple ceremony, Consul Demdem administered the oath-taking of the new set of officers and advisers of the Association of Filipino Community in Vicenza.  The organization was founded in 2010 and is composed of smaller groups representing diverse interests. It is officially registered with the city administration as the Associazione Comunita Filippina di Vicenza. 

There are more than 1,000 Filipinos in the industrial city of Vicenza, most of whom are employed in factories and hotels. END