PHILIPPINE EMBASSY HOSTS DIALOGUE BETWEEN DFA OFFICIALS AND THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN ESTONIA
02 October 2023, Tallinn – The Philippine Embassy in Warsaw engaged the Filipino Community in Estonia in a dialogue by hosting a gathering on 02 October 2023 in the capital city of Tallinn. The event was attended by visiting DFA officials, led by Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, who were in Estonia for the Inaugural Philippines-Estonia Political Consultations.
Ambassador Leah M. Basinang-Ruiz, who is based in Warsaw but is also accredited to Estonia as non-resident Philippine ambassador, welcomed the Filipinos and thanked them for taking the time to join the gathering despite their work and family commitments. She briefed the community members on the current status of relations between the Philippines and Estonia, which has become more active over the past year after a series of high-level meetings. The Inaugural Political Consultations is an important milestone in the two countries’ relations, and will provide a roadmap for bilateral cooperation in the coming years.
Undersecretary Lazaro conveyed that the presence of Filipino nationals in Estonia is an important component of strengthening Philippines-Estonia relations, and that the protection of their rights and welfare remains a priority for the Philippine government. She encouraged the Filipino community to continue close coordination among themselves, as well as continued engagement with the Embassy in order to further improve the delivery of services. There are an estimated 230 Filipino nationals currently residing in Estonia, and the number is expected to grow.
During the gathering, the community members shared their personal experiences while living in Estonia, and provided feedback and recommendations on issues of concern.
The Philippine Embassy also announced that a team will be deployed to Tallinn again in November to provide consular services and overseas voter registration for the next national elections. END
