26 June 2014 - The Philippine Consulate General in Milan conducted today a dialogue with Filipino community leaders in the business center of Turin, capital of the Piedmont region on June 22.
Filipino community leaders from Turin, Cuneo and Biella attended the dialogue convened by Philippine Consul General Marichu Mauro. Newly sworn in Honorary Consul Maria Grazia Cavallo was also in attendance. This was the first time for the Consul General to meet the leaders in an official capacity together with the Honorary Consul.
The dialogue emphasized the increasing importance of having a valid Philippine passport for overseas Filipinos. Consul General Mauro conveyed the concern of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the national government that Filipinos abroad must always be aware of the validity of their passports so that they are protected under both Philippine and Italian laws. The Consulate General is doing its best to address the passport renewals of the Filipino community as well as other consular needs. Consul General Mauro emphasized the importance of conducting consular mobile services, not only in Turin but also in other parts of Northern Italy.
Improvements in the conduct of consular services, which have proven successful since their implementation this April, were also discussed. The Consulate General underscored that efficient and effective consular services are a priority of the Consulate in addressing the needs of the Filipino community.
To assist Filipinos in their region, the present Filipino community leaders were also reminded of their duty to remind their members to have a valid Philippine passport. The valid Philippine passport is the vital document required for transactions with the Italian authorities. While the importance of strong coordination with the various associations is necessary, Consul General Mauro also stressed the Consulate General’s commitment to reach out to as many Filipinos as possible, especially those who are not affiliated with any association.
The Filipino leaders warmly welcomed the news that another mobile consular service will be held in the Piedmont region towards the end of the year. END