05 February 2015- The Philippine Embassy in Abuja, Nigeria hosted its first edition of “Kapihan sa Pasuguan” at the Philippine Embassy Chancery on January 31.

Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria Alex V. Lamadrid welcomed members of the Filipino community, particularly the officers and board of trustees of the Pusong Pinoy Association (PPA), the umbrella organization of Abuja-based Filipinos, whose active participation contributed to an active discussion of timely and important issues faced by Filipinos in Nigeria. PPA President Bernard Mercado and Chair of the Board of Trustees Lolita Victorio led the PPA participants.

The attendees observed a minute of silence in honor of the 44 officers of the Philippine National Police Special Action Forces (PNP SAF) who were killed in action in Mindanao.

The “Kapihan sa Pasuguan” featured a presentation by Third Secretary and Vice Consul General Ralf Roldan on the West Philippine Sea dispute. Vice Consul Roldan clarified the issues and the Philippine approach to resolve the dispute.  After the presentation, the Embassy officials replied to questions from the Filipino community. The Filipino community leaders expressed appreciation to the Embassy for enlightening them regarding the issue.

The Embassy and the PPA also discussed their respective plans and programs for 2015 and explored ways whereby they can collaborate for the benefit of the Filipino community.

“Kapihan” participants were treated to a sumptuous lunch of Filipino food and drinks.

The “Kapihan sa Pasuguan” aims to be the Embassy’s regular activity of interfacing with the members of the Filipino community in discussing important issues, sharing new ideas and best practices, and engaging stakeholders in meaningful dialogue. END