25 October 2013 - The Philippine Ambassador to South Africa Constancio R. Vingno, Jr. paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Director General (DDG) of the Civic Services of the Department of Home Affairs of South Africa, Mr. Vusi Mkhize on October 03.

Ambassador Vingno briefed DDG Mkhize on the situation of Filipinos in South Africa and he informed him that there are thousands of Filipinos who are currently living in South Africa. Most of them have considered South Africa as their second home. Ambassador Vingno mentioned that during the construction of the Gautrain, around 200 Filipino Engineers were employed and around 10 of them decided to stay in South Africa.  He also mentioned that there are Filipinos living in the Southern part of Africa, most of whom are skilled workers such as engineers and teachers.

During their discussion, Ambassador Vingno conveyed the sentiments of Filipinos in South Africa regarding the issuance of permanent resident visas. DDG Mkhize said that he would help Ambassador Vingno find a resolution to the issue.  END