Zug, 21 October 2017 – The Filipino community in Switzerland successfully held the Philippine Migrants’ Day in Zug. The event, which was organized by the Philippine Catholic Mission (PCM)-Zug, was attended by around 200 Filipinos from across Switzerland and several Swiss nationals.
The event, as is the tradition, kicked off with a mass celebrated by Fr. Antonio Enerio, SVD, Chaplain of PCM-Switzerland. After the mass, attendees were treated to an array of Filipino dishes and delicacies.
A cultural programme showcasing Filipino talents from the different Swiss cantons was held in the afternoon. Performances include a mixed repertoire of traditional and modern dances and renditions of various Filipino classic and popular songs.
Speaking on behalf of Ambassador Joselito A. Jimeno, Minister and Consul General Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro discussed the trends and prospects of Philippine migration, as well as the policies of President Duterte concerning labor and migration, and the efforts done by his administration to help Filipino migrants across the world.
In his remarks, Fr. Enerio urged the Filipino diaspora to respect the laws of the host country and serve as good example for other migrant communities to emulate.
The event was organized by PCM-Zug led by Ms. Belly Bucher, in coordination with PCM-Switzerland.
The Philippine Migrants’ Day was first celebrated in Switzerland in October 2013 in Berne. Since then, the event has become an annual gathering for Filipino diaspora across Switzerland, with Filipino communities in different cantons taking turn hosting the event. The celebration is traditionally held in the month of October. END
Ms. Belly Bucher – PCM Zug, welcomes guests to the Migrants Day Celebration and Fr. Antonio Enerio, SVD, PCM Chaplain, urges the Filipino diaspora to be a model for other diaspora communities
Consul General Maria Theresa S. M. Lazaro gives a briefing on government efforts to help and empower Filipino migrants
Filipinos from various Cantons participate in the cultural programme
