27 November 2013 - The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco and the US Pinoys for Good Governance organized a community forum featuring Assistant Secretary Lila Ramos Shahani, Head of Communications of the Human Development and Poverty Reduction Cabinet Cluster, last November 20.

In her presentation entitled “Calamities and Corruption: The Filipino Diaspora In An Era of Change”, Assistant Secretary Shahani discussed the Aquino Administration’s efforts to address poverty and achieve sustainable and inclusive growth, as well as major challenges to national development.

She also touched on headline issues such as calamities, in the light of the earthquake in Bohol and typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), and corruption, particularly the PDAF scandal, and how these issues affect development plans in the Philippines. She also underscored the Diaspora’s vital role in helping the country face these challenges.

“The Filipino Diaspora can play a major role in national development, poverty reduction and inclusive growth,” she stressed. She encouraged Filipinos and Filipino-Americans to take advantage of Overseas Voting and actively participate in the selection of the country’s leaders and policy makers.  She also encouraged overseas Filipinos to help boost the Philippine economy through the use of their remittances not only consumption purchases but also through investments.    END