05 November 2015 – The Philippine Consulate General and the Philippines Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Toronto partnered with the Kababayan Multicultural Centre (KMC) and Western Union and held a Newcomers’ Orientation Seminar on October 31 at the Bathurst-Finch Community Hub (BFCH). The Kababayan Multicultural Centre, a non-profit agency providing settlement services, receives funding from the Canadian government, with some funds also raised from the public to support other activities not covered by government funding.

The orientation seminar focused on the right to information regarding policies on women. Some 69 members of the Filipino community, mostly women, joined the seminar despite the inclement weather. KMC Chairperson, Mr. Jelbert Real delivered the welcome remarks, followed by a brief lecture given by KMC Executive Director Ms. Flor Dandal. Philippine Consul General Rosalita S. Prospero also gave a brief message and, cognizant of the importance of empowering women, highlighted the seminar as part of the Philippine Consulate General’s Gender and Development project for 2015.

Deputy Consul General J. Susana Paez and Labor Attaché Leonida V. Romulo gave presentations on the services offered by the Consulate General and POLO, respectively, emphasizing that both Philippine government agencies are mandated to serve and protect Filipino nationals abroad. Employment Counselor from Skills for Change, Ms. Norma Bernal, discussed “Alternate Careers for Internationally Educated Professionals.” Western Union Country Development Manager Mr. Chito Gonzales discussed “Securities, Compliance and Remittances” as well as Financial Literacy focusing on Basic Money Management.  Ms. Nora Angeles, Director of Interpretation Services of the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic gave a lecture on how to deal with abuse and harassment in the workplace. Ms. Maria Deanna Santos, Barrister and Solicitor, Notary Public, Immigration Lawyer discussed the provided updates on immigration issues and Mr. Albert Quirante, a Psychotherapist, talked about “Managing Change and Transition.” END