28 January 2014 - The Istanbul Filipino Community, led by its president, Mrs. Carmen Martin, held a cultural presentation, “Kulturang Kagandahan ng Mga Pilipino,” on the occasion of the first visit to Istanbul of Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Maria Rowena Mendoza Sanchez and Consul General Robert Ferrer on January 19.  They were accompanied by Consul Leilani Feliciano and Philippine Honorary Consul General Ersin Karaoglan. 

Prior to the presentation, the delegation attended mass with the community and a welcome lunch where the group had the opportunity to discuss consular matters.

In her remarks, Ambassador Sanchez  thanked Mrs. Martin and the association and cited the Filipino community’s invaluable contributions to the country’s development and their significant role in promoting the country.  In thanking them for their efforts and generosity  for the victims of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), she highlighted the community’s  strong  potential to bring about positive change in the recovering areas of Central Visayas by encouraging more tourism to the area.  She assured them of the wholehearted support of the Philippine Embassy in Ankara for all of their activities and reiterated its commitment to rendering quality service at all times.  Both Consul General Ferrer  and Consul Feliciano likewise affirmed their commitment to be of service at all times. 

 “Natutuwa kami na nakasama sila sa aming presentation at nalaman muli na sila ay laging handa na tulungan ang bawat Pilipino na lalapit sa kanila. Kami rin ay laging handa na tumulong sa kanila at sa ating mahal na bayan,” said Mrs. Martin. END