10 September 2015 - Philippine Ambassador to Greece Nestor Z. Ochoa met with the leaders of the Filipino community in Thessaloniki on September 06 at the Porto Palace Hotel, Thessaloniki. Also present during the meeting were Consul Sheila Marie C. Tario, Philippine Honorary Consul Nikolaos Margaropoulos, Welfare Officer Rosalia Susana Bahia-Catapang and Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) AdministrativeAssistant Liwayway Ferrer.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Ochoa mentioned the effects of the recent bank crisis and capital controls imposed by the Greek Government. He stated that he is glad that banks and remittance centers have now reopened. Although remittances are limited to 500 euros per month, Ambassador Ochoa said that this is still a positive sign. Ambassador Ochoa also stressed that the Filipinos living in Greece should observe the laws and regulations of the host country and to avoid engaging in illicit activities. The Ambassador also encouraged members of the community to register as overseas voters vote in order to vote in the National Elections next year.
Consul Tario then made several announcements relating to consular matters, overseas voting, and other concerns. Welfare Officer Catapang and Ms. Ferrer briefed the members of the Filipino community on the services provided by POLO and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. The panel also entertained questions from the Filipino community leaders. END