20 November 2014 - Pusong Pinoy Association (PPA), the first and largest Filipino community organization in Abuja, celebrated its 10th year anniversary on November 15 at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotel Abuja, Nigeria.
The milestone celebration, which was laced with fashion, entertainment and glamour, recognized the past and present leaders of the association who helped propel the organization as the unifying factor among Filipinos in Nigeria’s capital. Among those recognized were founding chairman of the Board, Ms. Lolita Victoria, members of the Board of Trustees, Ramon Ruste, Arnel Santos and Chet Gatus, current President Bernard Mercado, and former Presidents Sheen Kathrine Arcala, Bernabe Mercado, Teofie Infante, John Hernandez, Grace Abrazado, Pablo Nocum and Benjamin Nadado.
In his speech, Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria Alex V. Lamadrid recognized the association’s important contributions through the various charitable efforts and assistance to Filipinos both in Nigeria and the Philippines.
“In my five years in Nigeria, I have witnessed PPA to be always ready to render assistance to distressed Filipinos, whether here or in the Philippines. Who can forget the assistance PPA gave during the earthquake in central Visayas and the devastation brought by typhoon Yolanda?” Ambassador Lamadrid said.
“PPA also gives back to its host country, Nigeria, through their worthy projects with Bema Homes, School for the Blind and many others,” the Ambassador added.
Attended by over 200 Filipino and foreign guests, the celebration featured dance performances from the PPA members to the delight of the audience. The guests feasted on sumptuous Filipino food prepared by the Filipino chef of the Sheraton Hotel. END