Embassy Advisories
04 March 2010
The Embassy is pleased to announce the holding of its 2nd Consular Outreach Mission for 2010 at the following venue:
DATE: 13 MARCH 2010, SATURDAY
TIME: 8 AM TO 4 PM
VENUE: TINGEWICK HALL, JOHN RADCLIFFE HOSPITAL HEADINGTON, OXFORD, OX3 9DU
CONTACT PERSON: MR. ARIEL LANADA, CHAIRMAN, FILIPINO COMMUNITY OF OXFORD (07970316565)
SERVICES OFFERED:
• MACHINE-READABLE PASSPORT (MRP) APPLICATIONS
• EMERGENCY GREEN PASSPORT APPLICATIONS
• PASSPORT VALIDITY PERIOD EXTENSION APPLICATIONS (PASSPORTS CAN ONLY BE EXTENDED FOR A MAXIMUM PERIOD OF 1 YEAR)
• PASSPORT AMENDMENT (FROM SINGLE TO MARRIED NAME)
• ONE-WAY TRAVEL DOCUMENT APPLICATIONS
• REPORTS OF BIRTH, MARRIAGE, DEATH, DIVORCE
• NOTARIAL & LEGALISATION SERVICES (AFFIDAVITS, SPAs)
• NBI FORM APPLICATIONS
• ACCEPTANCE OF PHILIPPINE VISA APPLICATIONS (NOTE: NO ACTUAL VISAS WILL BE ISSUED DURING THE OUTREACH MISSION)
• PHILIPPINE CITIZENSHIP RETENTION/RE-ACQUISITION
• ASSISTANCE-TO-NATIONALS AND LEGAL ADVICE REGARDING PHILIPPINE LAW
• SSS. PAG-IBIG, AND OWWA MEMBERSHIP/BENEFITS
• ADVICE ON EMPLOYMENT/LABOR RELATED MATTERS
All those who will avail of the services during the Outreach Mission are advised to check the documentary and other requirements at www.philembassy-uk.org. Applicants may likewise download application forms in advance from the same website.
Those who wish to receive their processed Machine Readable Passports, visas to the Philippines, or other documents by post are advised to submit a self-addressed stamped special delivery envelope with their applications.
Payments for consular services can be made in cash or with postal money orders made out to the Philippine Embassy. Personal cheques are not accepted for payment purposes.
There will be a privately-run on-site photo company which can provide photography services for those who wish to avail of their services. The Embassy Team itself is not involved in the production of any photos for the use of applicants.
The Embassy looks forward to seeing you at the Consular Outreach Mission in Oxford.
15 February 2010
15 February – UK Home Affairs Minister Alan Johnson announced on 10 February 2010 a number of changes to Tier 4 (Student Visa) Regulations under the UK Points-Based System of Migration (PBS).
The initial Ministerial announcement outlines broadly measures resulting from a comprehensive review of the Tier 4 scheme as relayed initially by Prime Minister Gordon Brown in November 2009.
In the Ministerial Statement/Notes released by the UK Home Office, the UK Government announced the following modifications designed to achieve “a balanced and targeted package of measures to tackle the abuse of Tier 4 by economic migrants whilst at the same time continuing to safeguard the ability of genuine international students to come to the UK to benefit from our world class education system and bring benefit to our economy.”:
• Students will only be allowed to work during the school term for 10 hours a week instead of the present 20 hours a week
• Students registered in courses of six months or less can no longer bring dependants with them to the UK
• Students’ dependants are not permitted to work unless they qualify in their own right under Tier 1 (General) as a highly skilled migrant or as a skilled worker under Tier 2 (General worker, sportsperson or Minister of Religion)
The above changes will apply to adult students coming to the UK to study below degree level in the further education and English Language sectors. These changes will not apply to students coming to the UK for a foundation degree (broadly the equivalent of the first 2 years of a Bachelor’s degree), courses at degree level or above, and those coming in as child students at independent (private) schools.
Minister Johnson announced further that the changes will come into force on 03 March 2010 and all Tier 4 applications submitted on or after this date will be subject to the new restrictions.
The Philippine Embassy reiterates its advice for all prospective applicants under Tier 4 to secure up-to-date information on new regulations, procedures, and requirements from the UK Embassy in Manila.
01 February 2010
The Embassy is pleased to announce the holding of its first Consular Outreach Mission for 2010 at the following venue:
DATE: 20 FEBRUARY 2010, SATURDAY
TIME: 10 AM TO 6 PM
VENUE: BOARDROOM, UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL LLANDOUGH PENLAN ROAD, PENARTH, CARDIFF, WALES CF64 2XX
CONTACT PERSONS (FILIPINO COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS): 07825870580 (MS. KATHERINE CABASAN-ROSE)/07886192118 (JAIME)
SERVICES OFFERED:
• MACHINE-READABLE PASSPORT (MRP) APPLICATIONS
• EMERGENCY GREEN PASSPORT APPLICATIONS
• PASSPORT VALIDITY PERIOD EXTENSION APPLICATIONS (PASSPORTS CAN ONLY BE EXTENDED FOR A MAXIMUM PERIOD OF 1 YEAR)
• PASSPORT AMENDMENT (FROM SINGLE TO MARRIED NAME)
• ONE-WAY TRAVEL DOCUMENT APPLICATIONS
• REPORTS OF BIRTH, MARRIAGE, DEATH, DIVORCE
• NOTARIAL & LEGALISATION SERVICES (AFFIDAVITS, SPAs)
• NBI FORM APPLICATIONS
• ACCEPTANCE OF PHILIPPINE VISA APPLICATIONS (NOTE: NO ACTUAL VISAS WILL BE ISSUED DURING THE OUTREACH MISSION)
• PHILIPPINE CITIZENSHIP RETENTION/RE-ACQUISITION
• ASSISTANCE-TO-NATIONALS AND LEGAL ADVICE REGARDING PHILIPPINE LAW
• SSS. PAG-IBIG, AND OWWA MEMBERSHIP/BENEFITS
• ADVICE ON EMPLOYMENT/LABOR RELATED MATTERS
All those who will avail of the services during the Outreach Mission are advised to check the documentary and other requirements at www.philembassy-uk.org. Applicants may likewise download application forms in advance from the same website.
Those who wish to receive their processed Machine Readable Passports or visas to the Philippines by post are advised to submit a self-addressed stamped special delivery envelope with their applications.
Payments for consular services can be made in cash or with postal money orders made out to the Philippine Embassy. Personal cheques are not accepted for payment purposes.
The Embassy looks forward to seeing you at the first Consular Outreach Mission for 2010.
01 February 2010
The public is informed that as part of the Overseas Absentee Voting Education Drive, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the internet portal www.politicalarena.com for information on the platform and programs of candidates in the forthcoming Philippine National Elections on 10 May 2010.
The website’s other partners are the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV).
The website provides an interactive, non-partisan platform to facilitate dissemination of information on candidates. The public may likewise post comments/feedback to the political parties and candidates participating in the coming elections.
The public is invited to visit the website and to maximize available facilities in securing more information about candidates and their programs.
22 January 2010
Filipino online jobseekers looking for employment in the UK are advised to be more cautious in view of the rampant cases of bogus internet job offers. They should be wary of attractive jobs offered by the employers or their agents who would ask them to remit a certain amount of money purportedly to pay for the processing of their visas or work permits and other travel-related expenses.
The Philippine Embassy in London, through the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO), urges all Filipino jobseekers to be more discerning as these internet job offers come in various schemes to defraud them of their hard-earned money. Among the UK jobs which have been offered to Filipino applicants lately include positions like Nannies, Au Pair, Hotel staff, Store Manager, Salesmen, Engineers, and many others.
The following information/advisory should serve as guide to UK-bound Filipino jobseekers:
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Filipino jobseekers who have been ‘offered’ positions through the internet should advise their prospective UK employers to submit the original copies of their employment documents to the POLO Office, Philippine Embassy in London for verification and authentication. For their part, they should not rely on scanned documents sent to them by emails such as employment contract, appointment letters and the like, as most of these are found to be forged or fabricated;
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To ascertain the authenticity of the job orders, employment contracts as well as the legitimacy of UK employers, Filipino jobseekers are advised to check with the POEA. They may also send their email-request for verification by POLO London at polo.london@yahoo.co.uk; It is not enough to know if the employers really exist or that the jobs are available. Filipino jobseekers should also verify for themselves by using internet search engines like ‘Google’ in contacting the UK employers directly through their official websites;
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Job offers requiring them to pay or remit money are potentially suspicious. The charging of fees against candidates including the payment for visa and ‘work permit’ expenses are generally prohibited under the current UK employment regulation;
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The new UK Points-Based Immigration System has done away with the requirement of the old ‘work permit’ which is now replaced by the ‘certificate of sponsorship’. To be able to issue a certificate of sponsorship in favor of a candidate or applicant, the prospective UK employer should be duly licensed as a sponsor by the UK Border Agency (UKBA). Filipino jobseekers should verify the status of their prospective employers in the list of sponsors which can be found at the UKBA website: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk. The payment for the certificate of sponsorship is also shouldered by the UK employer;
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Application for UK visa is done in the country of origin, i.e., at the British Embassy in Manila, and not in the UK. Visas are issued based on the points criteria for qualifications, prospective earnings, maintenance funds and English language proficiency. Since the visas are applied at, and issued by the British Embassy in Manila, applicants should not give credence to the scanned copies of visas purportedly applied in their behalf by their employer’s agents, including immigration consultants, solicitors or travel agents;
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As regards hiring of Au Pair, it is advised that no Au Pair visas will be issued by the British Embassy to Filipino nationals since the Philippines had never been included in the UK’s list of Au Pair countries. Incidentally, the Au Pair visa scheme had already been abolished effective last 26 November 2008 and has been replaced by the Youth Mobility Scheme under the new UK Points-Based System;
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As to the hiring of Nannies or domestic workers, it is an important requirement for purposes of domestic worker visa application that the candidate must have worked with the sponsoring employer for at least one (1) year prior to the date of application. Hence, to qualify to come to the UK to work as a Nanny or domestic worker, the Filipino applicant must be an established member of the employer’s household. The visa is also applied at the British Embassy in Manila.
For further clarifications or inquiry, please contact POLO London (Labor Office), Philippine Embassy, at Tel.: 0044 (0)20-7451-1833 (32) or email at polo.london@yahoo.co.uk.
19 January 2010
(19 January 2010) -- The Philippine Embassy informs the public that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has set 31 March 2010 as the last day allowed for ICAO member countries to issue non-Machine Readable Passports.
In view of this, the Department of Foreign Affairs, all Philippine Embassies and Consulates General, and DFA Regional Consular Offices in the Philippines will issue only Machine Readable Passports starting 01 April 2010. The green emergency passport will no longer be issued starting 01 April 2010.
The Philippine Embassy in London has been issuing Machine Readable Passports since mid-2008.
In case of applicants with lost or expired passports and the holder needs to urgently travel to the Philippines, s/he may be issued a One-Way Travel Document and then the applicant can apply for a Machine Readable Passport or an E-Passport in the DFA Main Office in Manila or in any of the DFA Regional Consular Officers.
The DFA reminds members of the public holding the green Philippine passport that these remain valid until the expiration date indicated therein. Members of the public who wish to switch to the Machine Readable Passport may likewise do so at any time even before the expiration date of their green passports.
For those who wish to secure an E-passport, currently this type of passport may only be obtained at the DFA Head Office in Pasay City.
22 December 2009
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has advised all Philippine Embassies and Consulates General that the recent Philippine Supreme Court decision in the case of Kabataan Party List et al versus COMELEC (15 December 2009) on the extension of the registration period up to 09 January 2009 does not cover Overseas Absentee voting registration.
Therefore, there is no extension of Overseas Absentee Voting registration for the May 2010 national elections.
All OAV registrants are advised to periodically check the COMELEC website (www.comelec.gov.ph) for the list of approved applications for registration as Overseas Absentee Voters.
18 December 2009
In observance of Philippine and UK Public Holidays, the Philippine Embassy will be closed on the following dates:
Christmas Eve - Thursday 24 December
Christmas Day - Friday 25 December
In lieu of Boxing Day - Monday 28 December
Rizal Day - Wednesday 30 December
Special Non-Working Day - Thursday 31 December
New Year's Day - Friday 1 January
IN CASE OF THE DEATH OR DETENTION OF A FILIPINO CITIZEN IN THE UNITED KINGDOM, PLEASE CONTACT THE EMBASSY’S EMERGENCY MOBILE PHONE AT 07802790695.
17 December 2009
The Department of Foreign Affairs has issued a Passport Advisory (below) for the information of Philippine passport holders who wish to apply for passports in the Philippines. Interested members of the public are advised to read the guidelines and related information contained in the Advisory.
03 December 2009
The public is advised that the New Zealand Embassy in Manila, Philippines announced that the New Zealand Government will no longer require Filipino nationals traveling as transit passengers in New Zealand to secure transit visas.
Starting 30 November 2009, Filipinos will no longer be required to secure visas to transit New Zealand provided they remain in the airport and their travel bookings show a stopover of no more than 24 hours. If a transit visitor plans to stopover for more than 24 hours or planS to leave the airport, they must apply for a visitor visa.
16 November 2009
The public is advised that the initial list of COMELEC-approved registration or certification of overseas absentee voters may now be viewed through the COMELEC website at www.comelec.gov.ph/oavlist/toc_lists.html.
27 October 2009
The Public is informed that the Philippine Embassy in London will be closed to the public on the following dates in observance of Philippine Holidays:
2 November 2009 – Monday
27 November 2009 – Friday
30 November 2009 – Monday
For any emergencies (e.g. death, detention or deportation of a Filipino national), the public may contact the Embassy’s 24-hour emergency mobile number at 07802790695.
Thank you.
21 October 2009
1) Tax Exemptions for Relief Goods
2) Leeds Fund Raising Event
3) ShareHope Outreach “People Mass” and Fund Raising Event
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Further its previous advisories, the Philippine Embassy provides below a copy of Executive Order No. 831, Authorizing the Department of Finance, for the Duration of the Current Emergency, Complete Discretion in Authorizing Tax and Tariff Exemptions for Relief Goods Donated from Abroad, signed on 1 October 2009 and released last week.
Section 1 of the EO states that “for the duration of the emergency disaster currently existing, the Secretary of Finance shall have complete discretion in authorizing tax and tariff exemptions for relief goods donated from abroad, provided the donated relief goods, articles, equipment for free distribution to calamity declared areas and victims of calamities and/or disasters shall be for the account of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) or any of the relief organizations, not operated for profit, duly registered with the DSWD.”
The EO also creates a One Stop Shop in all collection districts of the Bureau of Customs headed by the Department of Finance and composed of representatives from the DSWD, DepEd, DOH, DA, DND and other government agencies.
Presently, the One Stop Shop is located at the 3rd Floor of the Bureau of Customs Building near the NAIA II Terminal (telephone no. +632-879-5180) and is manned by agency representatives from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. All collection districts are expected to put up their own One Stop Shops as soon as possible.
The One Stop Shop provides for the duty free and tax free processing of donated relief goods consigned to the DSWD or any DSWD-accredited/registered/licensed NGOs.
The list of accredited NGOs may be found at the DSWD website www.dswd.gov.ph
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The Yorkshire “MAHARLIKA” Filipino Club, in Association with the Leeds City Council will open the 1st Filipino Drop-In Centre in Yorkshire on 30 October 2009 from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm at Roundhay Park Education Centre, Mansion Lane, LEEDS LS8 2HH
The event will serve as a “FUN-D-RAISING ‘ONDOY’ DAY” featuring a Fun Run, Bingo, Raffle, Games and a Sing-A-Long Competition. Refreshments will be for sale at the venue.
In addition, there will be a special screening of the movie “In My Life”. Screening starts at 1.00 pm, with tickets at £5.
Cargo Services will be on hand to collect donated relief goods. Proceeds of the event will go towards the victims of Typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng”.
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The ShareHope Outreach is organizing a “People Mass” and fundraising event at the English Martyrs Church Chalkhill Road, Wembley Park, HA9 9EW on Sunday 15th November 2009 at 12:30pm.
The Parish Priests are Fr Hugh Corrigan OAR and Fr Mark Powell OAR. The Main Celebrant will be Fr Cirino Potrido, CM and Fr Jake Dicto, CS will be co-Celebrant. The Choir will be The Filipino Catholic Community Prayer Group.
There will be various fund-raising activities such as face painting, raffle, sale of food and drink, as well as entertainment at the event.
The contact persons for the event are:
Becky Sarinas 07949857699
Carina Castillo 07950874426
Mila Candelario 07912982608
Arlene 07789624349
Lina 07765183724
sharehopeoutreach@hotmail.co.uk
20 October 2009
The Philippine Embassy has been informed of the following upcoming charity events for the benefit of the victims of Typhoon “Ondoy”:
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Kunst Gallery and Art Bank in cooperation with Batangas Association UK are organizing “Art 4 a Cause” featuring works of Philippine artists. Proceeds of the event will go to the victims of typhoon “Ondoy”.
Vernissage
26 October 2009
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Art Exhibit
Wimbledon Gallery
35 Wimbledon Hill Road
SW19 7NB London, U.K.
27 to 30 October 2009
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
(download invitation) -
Mr. Rafael Landicho is organizing a Fundraising Event for the victims of Typhoon “Ondoy” on 7 November 2009, from 7.30 pm to 11.30pm at St. Edward the Confessor Church Hall, 700 Finchley Rd., Golders Green NW11 7NE.
The event features entertainment by Sound of the Suburb, the Lahing Kayumanggi Company, and former cast members of Miss Saigon. Refreshments will be available at the venue.
For more information, please contact Mr. Rafael Landicho at landicho.rafael@googlemail.com , or follow the following link: http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=147512574050&mid=1368cedG2a6a96deG2cb9a0bG42
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Philippine Generations will be holding a charity gig and dinner on 10 November 2009 at Guanabana restaurant on 85 Kentish Town Road, Camden NW1.Acts include Mark Villarosa, The Shaydz, When Gravity Fails and many more.
Tickets cost a minimum of £15 with further donation welcome. The ticket includes a buffet dinner. A limited number of VIP tickets which are closer to the stage are available and will be sold on a first come first served basis.
For more information and payment details (PayPal or cheque), please refer to the Philippine Generations website http://philippinegenerations.blogspot.com/
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Ms. Regina Mercado Nash provides details of the following fundraiser:
Date: Wednesday, 11th November 2009
Time: 19:30 - 22:00
Where: The Pangea Project, Stamford Hill (opposite Morissons).
This event will feature various musicians and styles as well as DJ Rootsmak Rak.
The following will be performing:
* Jyoshna, Amitabha, Kavita
* Pangea Choir inc Joshana Lovage
* Indranth and Paunkaj
* DJ Rootsman Rak
There will also be a visual presentation of amurt work.
There is no entrance fee, and a suggested donation of £5. Snacks and drinks will be on sale to raise money, as well as a raffle.
Advisory: Initial List Of Comelec-Approved Applications For Registration/Certifications For Overseas Absentee Voters
19 October 2009
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has announced that the initial list of approved applications for registration/certification of Overseas Absentee Voting applicants after the 04 August 2009 hearing of COMELEC-COAV's Resident Election Registration Board (RERB) can now be viewed at the COMELEC website www.comelec.gov.ph.
Members of the public who wish to check if their names are already included in the initial list may refer to the COMELEC website. END
19 October 2009
In view of the on-going postal system strike in the UK, the Philippine Embassy advises members of the public who need to secure documents (e.g. visas, passports, notarized or authenticated documents) urgently from the Embassy to consider claiming these personally from the Embassy during regular operating hours (9 am to 1 pm; 2 to 5 pm Monday to Friday).
Members of the public who prefer to submit their documents by post for services where the Embassy allows this mode of application (e.g. for Civil Registration, notarial, authentication, legalization and visa services) are advised that there may be some delay in the receipt and transmittal of their documents. END
14 October 2009
- LAST DAY TO DROP-OFF DONATIONS AT EMBASSY FOR WENTWORTH CONTAINER VAN;
- ISLE OF MAN RED BUCKET COLLECTION;
- CHARITY GOLF EVENT OF PHILIPPINE GENERATIONS
The following updates are provided with respect to the relief efforts in the wake of Tropical Storm “Ondoy” (Ketsana):
The last day for dropping off donations in kind at the Philippine Embassy for shipping on the container van donated by Wentworth International Movers Ltd is19 October 2009.
Wentworth (aka All Freight International), which will donate either a 20ft (approximately 190 boxes) or 40ft (approximately 400 boxes) container for transport of relief goods to the DSWD, will have its final collection from the Embassy on 20 October 2009. The cargo relief goods are expected to be loaded by 23 October 2009.
Donations before 20 October may be dropped-off at the Embassy during regular office hours. Donors are requested to place brief descriptions on the outside of each box to facilitate entry in the Philippines.
Donations that cannot be dropped-off and/or collected in time for the scheduled departure of the container van donated by Wentworth may be sent by the donors directly to Philippine recipients identified in previous advisories.
The Embassy will issue an advisory in case another container van for subsequent transport to Manila is donated.
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Volunteers for the Isle of Man Rapid Response Network and the Filipino Association in the Isle of Man will be working together to collect money for the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) appeal for the Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam. Street collectors will be out and about across the Island with red buckets on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th October.
The Rapid Response Network is coordinated by the One World Centre. The DEC is a coalition of 13 of the largest aid organisations, including the Red Cross, Oxfam, Christian Aid and Care. They launch a joint appeal only in the most desperate situations. The Manx public has very generously supported DEC appeals over the last few years.
Nora Loudon Brown from the Filipino Association in the Isle of Man stated “Our Board are delighted to participate in this joint response and we are sure that the Manx community will contribute with their usual kindness and generosity to bring help from Mann to Manila and other areas so recently badly affected within the region”.
G4S securities have offered their support to the two day event and will be counting the moneys collected. If you would like to contribute to the island collection, look out for red buckets on the street visit the DEC’s website on www.dec.org.uk or call the DEC on 0370 60 60 900. -
Philippine Generations is organizing a Charity Golf Event, as follows:
Date – 25/10/09
Time – 0900hrs
Venue – Stapleford Abbotts Golf Club (Horsemanside, Tysea Hill, Stapleford Abbotts, Essex RM4 1JU)
Price - £28 per headA deposit of £18 can be made online in order to book a space. There is also a facility to take full payment online, or on the day of the event (however, as spaces are limited, play is not guaranteed to persons turning up and paying on the day). A Paypal link on the main page of the Philippine Generations website/blog is being set up, otherwise cheques or postal orders should be made out to Philippine Generations Ltd and sent to:
Philippine Generations Ltd
88 Luxborough Tower
Luxborough Street
LONDON
W1U 5BNAny questions on the event may be submitted to Mr. David Garidan of Philippine Generations at T +44 (0)20-8830 4720 | M +44 (0)7768-076 719 | E david.garidan@gmail.com
12 October 2009
The Philippine Embassy in London once more expresses profound thanks to all those who continue to extend generous assistance to our countrymen affected by the recent natural calamities.
Following are updates on relief efforts from the UK:
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The Philippine Nurses Association of the UK (PNA UK), a duly registered UK Charity under the UK Charity Commission, has mobilised its membership in support of the Philippine government's declaration of a National State of Calamity and international call for assistance, donations, aid and relief.
PNA has identified the following drop-off or collection points for donations:
East Anglia:
Filipino Community of West Suffolk - PNA
Contact Person: Sherwin Dianco (07887903265)South West England:
Swansea Filipino community
Contact Person: Dodong (07872140290)South East London:
Contact Person: Michael Duque (07799651846)Central West London:
Contact Person: Clet Ng (07946671105)Midlands:
Mila's Oriental Store
334 Leeds Road
Bradford
BD3 9QX
Telephone/fax 01274 729315
Mila's Oriental store will donate 5% of each 20.00 or more spent per person in-store from now until 31st October 2009 to PNA UK Donations appeal.There will also be a charity fundraiser for the victims of flooding with the cooperation of PNA UK and Philippine Generations:
Tuesday, 10 November 2009 @ 19:00 - 22:00
Guanabana Music Club
85 Kentish Town Road, Camden NW1
London, United KingdomCaribbean and Latin food will be served in an "all-you-can-eat" buffet and a line up of talented musicians (Mark Villarosa and Company, etc.) is scheduled to appear.
Proceeds from the event will be donated to disaster funds assisting the victims of the recent flooding in the Philippines.
All participating donors and donations will be publicly acknowledged in the PNA UK Website and newsletter. Please exercise caution with any organization, group or individuals mis-representing PNA UK or using the association’s charity status. Email admin@pnauk.org.uk for more information or confirmation.
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The 1st Kabalikatan Cup 2009-Open Invitational Basketball League in Kent & Sussex and Fund-Raising for the benefit of “Ondoy” Victims will be held on 17 Oct 2009, 10.00 am at the TTWHS Sports Centre, Blackhurst Lane, Tunbridge Wells, KENT TN2 4PY.
The event is organized by Kabalikatan (Bro. Elizon Lazaro, MCMI, Chairman, 013 4233 0307, www.kabalikatan.co.uk).
Before the start of the games, there will be a “Fund Raising Marathon” hour. Proceeds from the sale of food during the event will go to charity. Under the “Shoot mo, Buhay ko” event, Kabalikatan will also pay £1.00 x total score of each of the playing teams during the Grand Opening Day.
- Several remittance companies have informed the Embassy that they are waiving charges on donations to certain organizations and charities. In addition to those announced in earlier advisories, these include the following:
I-Remit is waiving fees on donations to the Inquirer Ondoy Relief Drive, with the following account details:
Philippine Savings Bank
Peso Savings Account Name: Inquirer Ondoy Relief Drive
Account Number : 111-112002660LCC Trans-Sending Ltd has waived remittance charges for remittances to GMA Kapuso Foundation, ABS CBN Sagip Kapamilya Foundation, and BDO Foundation.
CBN Grupo has waived remittance charges for remittances to Philippine National Red Cross, NDCC, DSWD, GMA Kapuso Foundation, ABS CBN Sagip Kapamilya Foundation, and BDO Foundation.
06 October 2009
The following updates are provided with respect to the relief efforts in the wake of Tropical Storm “Ondoy” (Ketsana):
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Wentworth International Movers Ltd (aka All Freight International), which will donate either a 20ft (approximately 190 boxes) or 40ft (approximately 400 boxes) container for transport of relief goods to the DSWD, made its first collection of 24 boxes of donated items from the Embassy last 8 October.
The next scheduled collections by Wentworth from the Embassy are on 15 October and 20 October.
Donations may be dropped-off at the Embassy during regular office hours. All boxes of donations are requested to have a brief description attached to the outside of each box to facilitate entry.
Other drop-off points that would like to secure boxes from Wentworth and/or arrange for possible pick-up of boxes may contact Wentworth International Movers Ltd at Tel: 01932 853344/Fax: 01932 853377, or through www.wimove.co.uk. -
The Office of the President and Caritas have put up the “Sagip Tulong Program” to further assist the victims of the storm.
Donations to the Program may be sent, as follows:
a. Monetary Donations
US Dollar
Caritas Manila
BPI Dollar Savings Account No. 3064-0033-55Caritas Manila, Inc.
PNB Dollar Savings Account No. 10856660005Philippine Peso
Caritas Manila
Bangko de Oro Savings Account No. 5600-45905Caritas Manila
BPI Savings Account No. 3063-5357-01Caritas Manila
Metrobank Savings Account No. 175-3-17506954-3b. Focal Persons
Ms. Gina Santos – CP No. (+63) 919892-8226
Ms. Tam de Ocampo – Tel. No. (+63 2) 563 93081c. On-Air Acknowledgment of Donations
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The Filipino Community in Greenwich has organized an activity to help those affected by “Ondoy” called "Sing for Filipino Typhoon Victims". This is will be a light lunch with vidoeke at the community centre of St. Peter Catholic Church in Woolwich, Greenwich. The event will be on 18 October 2009 after the 11:15 a.m. mass.
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Fitness First Camden’s Charity Rescue Run for Ondoy Victims
Treadmill Challenge - The Rescue Run (10 October 2009)
For every club to keep 1 treadmill moving on one specific day.
- • To have the day split into 15 minute time slots, so a member can do a minimum 30 minutes, 45 mins etc if they choose to.
- • The suggested minimum donation would be £1 for every 15 minutes from the person on the treadmill.
- • Additional donation can be given separately on a designated rescue box.
- • This activity is open for non-members
Time & Activity Schedule
10 AM - 4PM - Rescue Run
4PM - 6PM - Socializing with Filipino Fitness First MembersTo donate online please follow the following link: www.fitnessfirst.com/pinesfloodappeal
Organizer: Wilmar Marcos
London Division, Club Membership Manager, Camden
128 Albert Street, London NW 7NE
Tel. 0207 284 2244
Web: www.fitnessfirst.com -
Welcome Mass for the Arrival of the Relics of St. Therese to be held on 11 October 2009, 6pm at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Kensington Church Street, W8 4BB, to be celebrated by Bishop Alan Hopes.
Entire collection for this mass was pledged by Carmelite Church Prior, Fr. Matt Blake, to the Typhoon Ondoy victims.
The relics will be at the parish from 7:30pm of 11 October until 9:30am of 12 October.
The program for the duration of the visit is as follows:
Oct 11 -
7:30pm: Arrival of the Relics of St Therese
8:00pm: Veneration of the relics
Oct 12 -
6-7.00am: Prayers and reflection by the Carmelite Secular Order
7.00am: Prayer for Vocations
8.00am: Mass
9.00am: Closing Ceremony
9.30am: Departure of the Relics
Donations in kind could be dropped at the Jireh Cargo warehouse c/o London Freight Warehouse, 72 Wimbledon Stadium, Business Centre, Rosemary Rd., London SW17 0BA. Please call Mr. JoCar or Ms. Marilyn Carillo prior to delivery at tel. nos. 0208 767 8640, 0787 712 9528 or 0773 707 0942.
For donations to be acknowledged over NBN Channel 4, donors may fax a copy of their deposit slips to (+63 2) 563 9306, together with donor’s name, address and contact number.
06 October 2009
The following updates are provided with respect to the relief efforts in the wake of Tropical Storm “Ondoy” (Ketsana):
-
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) issued a List of Priority Relief Needs, as follows:
• Food (long shelf life, such as canned goods)
• Non-food- • Mats
- • Blankets
- • Clothes
- • Flashlights
- • Emergency Lamps
- • Tents
- • Generators
- • Water Containers
- • Hygiene Kits (bath soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, laundry bars, feminine napkins)
- • Baby diapers
- • Slippers
-
The Philippines Emergency Appeal of Queen Mary, University Of London set up the website www.philemergencyappeal.com for information regarding the appeal.
-
The previously announced fund-raising event on Sunday, 11th October 2009 from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm at the Baden Powell Conference Hall, Cromwell Rd SW7 is organized by Aguman Kapampangan UK, Batangas Association UK, and the Philippine Association of Royal Mail Employees. Other organizations may also send confirmation of their participation.
-
Cargo forwarders and remittance companies have been requested by the organizers to be present at the event to handle donations for the victims of “Ondoy”. The hall will open at 9.00 am with a mass at 10:30am. There will be various activities and entertainment, with food and drinks available for sale. A special film showing will start at 2.00pm.
-
Allied Bank is until further notice waiving remittance charges for donations made to the Philippine National Red Cross. The address provided is 114 Rochester Row, London SW1P 1JQ.
The Department of Health also issued a priority list of medical supplies and equipment, as attached below.
(DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH PRIORITY LIST)
05 October 2009
The Philippine Embassy once more expresses its deepest thanks and appreciation to all groups and individuals who have extended assistance to those affected by Tropical Storm “Ondoy” (Ketsana).
The following updates are provided:
-
Wentworth International Movers Ltd (aka All Freight International) will donate either a 20ft (approximately 190 boxes) or 40ft (approximately 400 boxes) container for transport of relief goods to the DSWD.
Wentworth has already supplied the Embassy with empty boxes for the shipping of the relief goods. All boxes of donations must have brief description attached to the outside of each box to facilitate entry.
The first collection from the Philippine Embassy is scheduled for 8 October 2009. The Embassy will announce subsequent collection dates.
Other drop-off points that would like to secure boxes from Wentworth and/or arrange for pick-up of boxes may contact Mr. Richard Todd at r.todd@wimove.co.uk or Wentworth International Movers Ltd
at Tel: 01932 853344/Fax: 01932 853377, or through www.wimove.co.uk.
-
The organizers of the “Hearthrobs London 2009” show scheduled for 8 November 2009 at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5JF announced that they will donate £1.00 for every person who watches the show (e.g. £1,000.00 if 1,000 people attend). Information on the show may be found athttp://www.kckulit.com/, or call 07919 652 573 or 020 7379 9073.
-
Aguman-UK will hold a fund-raising event on Sunday, 11th October 2009 from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm at the Baden Powell Conference Hall, Cromwell Rd SW7. The event will feature entertainment, food and games. Proceeds will go towards the relief efforts. Items may be donated and collected at the venue.
-
The following additional drop-off points for donations have been identified:
Skylord Travel
118 Tottenham Court Road
London
W1T 5AN
Tel: 02073808755Skylord Travel
208 Field End
Field End Road
Eastcote
Middlesex
HA5 1RD
Tel: 0207 3808755For every air travel ticket purchase through Skylord’s online booking (www.skylordtravel.com), £1.00 will go to the NDCC/DSWD
-
There will be a Special Mass for Victims of Tropical Storm Ondoy / Ketsana on 7 October 2009, Wednesday, 6.45 pm at Farm Street Church, 114 Mount Street London W1K 3AH. Everyone is invited to attend.
-
I-Remit will continue until further notice to waive remittance fees for donations to Sagip Kapamilya, Kapuso Foundation, and to the Philippine National Red Cross. I-Remit is located at 1st Floor, Orchard House, 167-169 High Street Kensington, W8 6SH.
Erly Estrada - Couples for Christ member
58 Swanage Waye
Hayes
Middlesex
UB4 0NY
For additional information, please visit the Philippine Embassy website www.philembassy-uk.org
01 October 2009
Further Advisory No. 3 (30 September 2009), the following additional information is provided regarding waiver of fees for monetary donations and donation drop-off points:
Philippine National Bank (Europe) will waive fees for donations to the Philippine National Red Cross, GMA-7 Foundation and Caritas up to 31 October 2009. PNBE Offices are at PNBE Earls Court, Ground Floor, 11 Kenway Road, London SW5 0RP; and Notting Hill Gate, First Floor, 10 Pembridge Road, London W11 3HL.
The following locations have been identified as additional drop-off points for donations in kind:
Eli Alquiros
Philistar
2 Union Street
Reading
Bekshire
RG1 1EULowell Daluz
Pinoy Mini-Mart (former Phil-Thai)
46B Harehills Road
Leeds LS8 5PB
0113 2407285Noralyn
Newcastle Filipino Store
60 Shields Road,
Byker
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE6 1DREdgar
Bradford Pinoy Store
53 Ducworth Lane,
Bradford
BD9 5ETRosemarie Estrada
41 Rother Road
Farnborough
Hampshire
GU14 9LP
Special Mass for Victims of Tropical Storm Ondoy / Ketsana, 7 October 2009, Wednesday, 645 PM, Farm Street Church, 114 Mount Street London W1K 3AH --- ALL INVITED TO ATTEND
30 September 2009
The Philippine Embassy in London expresses profound thanks and appreciation for all the immediate pledges of support and assistance to those affected by Tropical Storm Ondoy / Ketsana.
In order to further assist the ongoing relief efforts, the following updates/ information is provided:
- Those who wish to contribute to the relief efforts are encouraged to send their donations directly to the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC), the Philippine National Red Cross, or the Department or Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
Information on donating through these agencies may be found on their respective websites, in the Embassy’s Advisory No. 1 (28 September 2009), on the Embassy’s website www.philembassy-uk.org, or in the attachment below.
-
The following companies have informed the Philippine Embassy that they are waiving remittance fees and charges with respect to donations, as follows:
I-Remit
1st Floor, Orchard House
167-169 High Street Kensington, W8 6SH
Donations to Sagip Kapamilya, Kapuso Foundation, and to the Philippine National Red Cross, from 1 to 5 October 2009 - Donations in kind may be dropped-off at the following locations:
Individuals, companies and organizations in London that wish to donate similar services are requested to inform the Embassy of their intended activities so that advisories to the community may be regularly updated and issued.
OnePhilippines has set up hotlines for questions/clarifications on the relief efforts (e.g. which remittance companies are
waiving charges; donation drop off points). People may leave messages if lines are busy, team is engaged or if calling outside office hours. The numbers and e-mail are: +44 845 8387880 or +44 207 0961246;
helpnow@onephilippines.co.uk.
Metro Remittance
12 Kensington Church Street,
London, W8
metrorem@btconnect.com
All donations towards Ondoy/Ketsana relief efforts
Philippine Embassy
6 Suffolk Street
London, SW1Y 4HG
(Monday to Friday, office hours 9am to 5pm; please use form below)Mark Wolfisz, Chairman
Philippines Emergency Appeal
Queen Mary, University of London
philemergencyappeal@yahoo.co.uk
For donations within Queen Mary, University of London. All donations in kind will be collected by the Economics Society. Please e-mail your name and contact number to philemergencyappeal@yahoo.co.uk. An officer from the Economics Society will contact you regarding arrangements in collecting your donation. Your donation will be sent to the Philippine National Red Cross. Donation Form provided below.Mr. Jamil Reyes
17 Lennox House
Cresset Road
Hackney, E9 6SE
jamilreyes@gmail.com
Please contact Mr. Reyes first to arrange deliveryMr. Pol de Guzman and Ms. Sharon de Guzman
Highlight Express
88 Hay Lane, Kingsbury
London, NW9 0LG
info@highlightexpress.co.ukMr. Rommel Villarico
20 Dysons Close
Measham, Swadlincote
Derbyshire, DE12 7NN
villaricoexpress@hotmail.com
Please note that under existing laws and regulations, used/old clothing cannot be imported into the country.
(NDCC, Philippine National Red Cross, and DSWD information)
Advisory 2: Guidelines to Foreign Service Posts on Assistance from Oversease Filipino Communities for those affected by Typhoon "Ondoy"
30 September 2009
The Department of Foreign Affairs issued guidelines to all its foreign service posts - including the Philippine Embassy in London - regarding receiving assistance from overseas Filipino Communities for those affected by Typhoon “Ondoy”.
The DFA guidelines may be found online at http://dfa.gov.ph/?p=8862.
In particular, reference is made to the Department of Social Works and Development (DSWD) Omnibus Guidelines in the Management and Processing of Donations (A.O. 53, series of 2003).
The DSWD Omnibus Guidelines may be found in full at http://www.dswd.gov.ph/images/articles/AO53.pdf.
Individuals and Organizations that wish to give donations in kind are kindly advised to refer to the provisions of the Omnibus Guidelines.
Those who wish to donate cash may send amounts to the DSWD, National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) or Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) accounts, as provided in the succeeding page.
28 September 2009
Anyone who wishes to contribute to relief efforts in the wake of Typhoon “Ondoy” may send their donations to the following accounts:
Other queries and donations may be referred to the following agencies:
For those who wish to ascertain the status of their relatives, colleagues or residences in the Philippines, following are emergency contact numbers/hotlines in the Philippines:
National Disaster Coordinating Committee
911-1406 911-1873 911-1906
911-5061 912-0984 912-2665
912-3046 912-5296 912-5668
Help hotlines:
734-2118
734-2120
Red Cross
143
911-1876
527-0000
Bureau of Fire Protection, National Capital Region
729-5166
410-6254
413-8859
407-1230
Bureau of Fire Protection, Region III (Central Luzon)
Hotline (045) 9634376
Philippine Coast Guard
527-6136
Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA)
136
896-6000
Marikina
0920 - 938 - 9914
Quezon City
0921 - 655 - 5262
Pasig
0918 - 935 - 6318
Cainta
0917 - 560 - 6241
Taguig emergency hotline
1623
Meralco
16220
0917-5592824
0920-9292824
23 September 2009
PR-747-09, 23 September 2009 – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is warning the Filipino public against a text scam circulating in Austria and other countries.
The DFA discourages overseas Filipino workers from responding to messages claiming they had won a large amount of money in an electronic lottery or raffle.
The DFA learned that those who responded to the message were asked to transmit money as a requirement prior to receiving their so-called prizes. The money will be used supposedly to pay for taxes or remittance charges, or as donation.
The Philippine Embassy in Vienna reported that these scammers use public institutions such as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), as well as the names of known public officials like the BSP Governor Amando Tetangco, Jr. and Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Sixto Esquivias, in order to lure unsuspecting victims.
A lady victim narrated to the Philippine Embassy how she had paid a fee of €4,000 (P 258,809.00) for the release of her prize, which was supposed to be settled through a remittance center (Western Union) to certain “Jerry Rivas Vidal” which turned out to be a fictitious identity. The scammers even asked for an additional P38,900 as donation as soon as the transfer has been made.
The DFA strongly advises Filipinos to be cautious of these malicious schemes and to not respond to such text messages to avoid becoming victims of these scams.
These scams are reported to the National Bureau of Investigation and National Telecommunication Commission for Investigation. END
The public is advised of the following amendment to the Supplemental Guideline for Waiver of Exclusion Ground under Commonwealth Act 613, Sec. 29(a)(12):
Paragraphs 4 and 5 of Bureau of Immigration Office Memorandum No. MCL-08-006 are hereby amended as follows:
"Minor children under fifteen (15) years of age of Philippine ancestry, who are unaccompanied by or not coming to join a parent shall be exempt from waivers of exclusion and waivers of exclusion service fees, Provided that , the children are accompanied by a Philippine grandfather, grandmother, guardian or relative, Provided further that , the accompanying grandfather, grandmother, guardian or relative submits substantive proof (e.g. birth certificate issued by the NSO or by LCR, Baptismal Certificate, other public documents acknowledging relationship) of the children's Philippine ancestry at the port of entry and, Provided finally , that , the children are not otherwise, inadmissible.
For purposes of these guidelines, the term children shall refer to children below fifteen (15) years of age, whether legitimate, illegitimate, or legally-adopted.
This memorandum order takes effect immediately.
(signed)
MARCELINO C. LIBANAN
Commissioner
The Bureau of Immigration (BID) further clarifies that the substantive proof required should be certified or authenticatd by the Philippine foreign service posts. Meanwhile, Philippine grandfather, grandmother, guardian, or relative refers to Filipinos, dual citizens, and also former Filipinos who have lost their Philippine citizenship through naturalization in a foreign country
The guardian referred to in the memorandum does not need to be a court appointed guardian but only those who are appointed by the parents through a legal document.
For the information of the public. END
14 August 2009
In line with the Philippine Embassy’s efforts to monitor the effects of the implementation of the UK Points-Based System of Migration (PBS) on Filipino nationals, FILIPINO SENIOR CARERS in the UK , are invited to send feedback on their own experiences or concerns related to the PBS, particularly on the transitional arrangements for senior carers.
Specifically, the Embassy would appreciate receiving information on any cases of Filipino senior carers who were unable to avail of the transitional arrangements and/or secure settlement status in the UK.
Feedback may be sent to the Philippine Overseas Labour Office (POLO-UK) through the Embassy’s revamped website at www.philembassy-uk.org.
The concerned sector’s feedback and comments on this matter are greatly appreciated. END
14 August 2009
All Filipinos qualified to register and vote in the May 2010 Philippine National elections are reminded that the deadline for Overseas Absentee Voting registration is on 31 August 2009.
Registration is on-going from 9 am to 1 pm and from 2 to 6 pm at the 1st floor, Bldg. 6, Philippine Embassy from Monday to Friday.
The following Mobile and Field Registrations will also take place this month:
15 AUGUST 2009, SATURDAY, 10 AM TO 4 PM, NORWICH MIND, 5 SALE ROAD NORWICH NR7 9TP
22-23 AUGUST 2009, SATURDAY TO SUNDAY, 11 AM TO 6 PM (SAT), 9 AM TO 1 PM (SUN), Shapes Furniture (Office of the Philippine Honorary Consul)No. 1 Bankhead Medway, Edinburgh EH11 4BY
30 AUGUST 2009, 9 AM TO 5 PM, SUNDAY, I-REMIT, 1ST FLOOR, ORCHARD HOUSE, 167-169 HIGH ST. KENSINGTON, LONDON W8 6SH
MAKILAHOK AT MAG-REHISTRO! END
