28 August 2014 – In line with its continuing efforts to promote transparent, accountable and participatory governance, the Philippine Embassy in Dili held an informal dialogue with the officers and members of the Association of Filipinos in East Timor (AFET) on August 17.

Addressing the group, Philippine Ambassador to Timor-Leste Maria Aileen H. Bugarin underscored the commitment of the Embassy to render frontline services to Filipinos in Timor-Leste in a consistent and efficient manner.

Third Secretary and Vice Consul Maurice A. Tiempo delivered a short briefing on the consular mandate and services of the Embassy. He ended his presentation with a reminder to all Filipinos present to respect the laws of both the Philippines and Timor-Leste.

Issues affecting Filipinos in Timor-Leste were also discussed in the open forum that followed. Incumbent AFET President Judy Rona Madamba served as the moderator for the session.

At the end of the dialogue, AFET members acknowledged the critical role of the Filipino community in further enhancing the existing positive ties between the Filipino and Timorese people.

At the sidelines of the event, the Embassy also accepted applications from Filipinos who wish to register for the 2016 National Elections.

The event was capped with a simple Filipino merienda cena. END