PH Embassy in Canada Highlights Vigilance and Awareness During 2nd Filipino International Students Convention in Ottawa

Philippine Ambassador to Canada, Her Excellency Maria Andrelita S. Austria, addressed the participants

OTTAWA 13 September 2024 — The Philippine Embassy in Canada, in partnership with Philippine Centre Canada (PCC) and Algonquin College - Filipino Club, successfully organized the second Filipino International Students Convention in  Ottawa at Algonquin College in Woodroffe Avenue, Ottawa on 31 August 2024.

The convention aimed to serve as a platform for newly-arrived Filipino international students to become better informed about the services and assistance available to them—from both the Philippine Government and Canadian organizations.

PCC Chair Lota Bertulfo welcomed the participants. In her remarks, Chair Bertulfo encouraged the participants to cultivate friendships and relationships that will serve as support systems through their journey, settlement, and integration in Canada.

Philippine Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita S. Austria, in her welcome remarks, emphasized the importance of being well-informed and to regularly check official sources and seek advice from credible experts to stay ahead of any changes that could affect their status in Canada. “As you navigate your journey here, I also want to remind you to carry with you the values and principles that define us as Filipinos. Whether you are here in Canada or back home in the Philippines, let us strive to be good citizens—upholding integrity, respect, and a strong sense of community,” Ambassador Austria reminded the participants.

This year’s convention featured 3 seasons namely: Session 1 - Canadian Education on ‘Overview of Canadian Education’ by Mr. Ernest Mulvey, Director, International Education Centre of Algonquin College; ‘Study and Time Management’ by Ms. Liesel Aranyosi, registered Psychotherapist, Certified Trauma Professional, Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Specialist; Session 2 - Canadian Economy and Financial Services on ‘Legal Obligations and Rights of International Students and Overview of PGWP System and Canadian Economy (Labor Situation) and Employment Opportunities’ by Ms. Elsa Sabas, an international education consultant, on behalf of Angela Faith Cainto-Perez of ACPerez Law; ‘Banking and Financial Services’ by Ms. Laura Thibedeau, Scotiabank Senior Banking Advisor; ‘Income Tax Filing’ by Ms. Malaya Matibag, CPA, Scotiabank CGA Senior Manager- Sales Tax; and Session 3 - PH Consular and Labor Concerns presented by Consul General Rea Oreta; and ‘Welfare and Migrant Workers’ Office (MWO) Services’ by Mr. Benny Reyes, OIC, MWO - Toronto, respectively.

Representatives from SSS Toronto, Ms. Lucille Blesilda Simbol, and Immigrant Women Services Ottawa, Ms. Rajnish Sharma, also participated in the above event.

“The Conference was highly informative, with guest speakers providing well-prepared and valuable insights. The support from the Philippine Embassy and the Philippine Center Canada made the event both enriching and memorable for all participants." Marigold Masapaquena, former President of the Algonquin College- Filipino Club, shared.

The participants had been given the opportunity to ask questions during and after each session. The event was capped by a brief networking event among the speakers and participants. END

Guest Speaker Ms. Elsa Sabas presenting Legal Obligations and Rights of International Students and overview of Post Graduate Work Permit System, on behalf of ACPerez Law.

Ms. Lucille Blesilda Simbol of SSS explained procedures to a client

For more information, visit https://www.ottawape.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.philembassy.ca, https://www.facebook.com/PHinCanada/  or https://twitter.com/PHinCanada.