23 November 2016 — The Philippine Embassy in Berlin celebrated trailblazing Filipino women in Berlin by hosting a ladies´ high tea November 03. 

The event was organized as part of its Gender and Development program. It was attended by female officers and staff of the Philippine Embassy in Berlin, led by Philippine Ambassador to Germany Melita Sta. Maria-Thomeczek, and representatives from the Filipino community representing the academe and some organizations.

The ladies shared their experiences and challenges as wives and mothers in a foreign land like Germany.  Sharing how they coped, many said that their faith and love of their family sustained them through trying periods. 

Although they raised their children juxtaposing two different cultures, they never forgot to espouse Filipino values such as respect for elders, the importance of family, the value of education, and the virtue of generosity.

Visiting Psychologist Maria Teodora “Teddi” S. Dizon gave a presentation on “Pagnananay: The Value of Filipina Mother´s Role in Today´s World,” outlining traditional Filipino values that make Filipinos highly preferred in the global workforce such as loyalty, adaptability, warmth, compassion, helpfulness, and an empowered view of women. 

 “Filipina nurturing is what teaches us these values, and also what forms them in us through modeling. The goals and approaches of Filipina mothers are highly valued as a unique avenue for forming a new generation who can significantly contribute to the global community,” said Ms. Dizon. END