18 October 2013 - As the Philippine Embassy in Wellington continues to reach out to the Filipino communities in New Zealand and in the Pacific countries under its jurisdiction, Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez and Consul Arlene Gonzales-Macaisa conducted an oath-taking ceremony for former Filipinos in Fiji in order to complete the application process for dual citizenship under Republic Act 9225.  Eight Filipinos who hold Fijian citizenship availed of the dual citizenship acquisition.

Warmly welcomed by Philippine Honorary Consul in Fiji, Dr.Virgilio de Asa and his wife, Mrs. Nora de Asa, Ambassador Benavidez and Consul Gonzales-Macaisa joined and interacted with several members the Filipino community during the ceremony in Suva, Fiji in a Fellowship Night at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Bernie Eseo on October 09.

The Filipino community of Fiji, led by Consul Dr. de Asa, Mr. Primo Relos, Jr., President of the Filipino Association in Fiji, and Ms.Luvie Adricula, coordinated the Fellowship Night and the oath-taking ceremony.  The Embassy reiterated its deep appreciation to Consul Dr. de Asa, Mr.Primo Relos, Jr., Ms. Beth Relos-Zhu, Ms.Nida Centeno, Ms.Luvie Adricula, Mr. Bernie Eseo, Mrs. Yvonne Eseo and other Filipinos who ably assisted and arranged the Embassy’s second visit to the Pacific island nation.  END