20 December 2013 – The Philippine Embassy in Pretoria joined the 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) with a screening of the Lino Brocka film “Insiang” at the Philippine Embassy on December 08. The 18-day campaign runs from November 25 to December 12.

In his remarks, Philippine Ambassador to South Africa Constancio R. Vingno Jr. welcomed the Filipino community and talked about the importance of the 18-day Campaign to End VAW.

Apart from observing the 18-day campaign to end VAW, December was also declared as the National Volunteer Month (NVM).  Consul Joselito Chad N. Jacinto talked about the NVM that gives recognition to the vital role of volunteers and their contribution to nation-building.

The Ambassador’s wife and President of the Philippine Ladies Circle, Madame Yoko Ramos-Vingno, also presented to Ms. Ces Cunningham donated goods for Thabang Foundation. The Thabang Foundation cares for elderly people with mental disorder.

After the film showing, the Filipino community enjoyed refreshments such as sotanghon soup and puto prepared by Embassy personnel.  END