Message from the Ambassador
Year-End Message
To all the Members of the Filipino-British Community in the United Kingdom Mga Minamahal na Kababayan
As the year 2009 comes to a close, I wish to extend on behalf of my wife, Mrs. Linda Floirendo-Lagdameo, our family, and the personnel of the Philippine Embassy in London, warmest greetings for a peaceful Christmas and a productive 2010.
In the less than half a year since I assumed my post as Philippine Ambassador to the Court of St. James's, I have been a proud witness to the commitment, dedication, creativity, and generosity of the Filipino-British Community as well as our friends in the International Community in the United Kingdom.
From the warm welcome given to me and my family when I first arrived; my presentation of credentials to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II; active participation in the Overseas Absentee Voting Registration; the outpouring of sympathy and remembrance at the passing of a President and icon, Corazon Aquino; involvement in the various trade, tourism, economic, cultural and other activities of the Embassy; the generous assistance in our Community-wide relief efforts in the wake of natural calamities in the Philippines, to the many joyous occasions such as the Barrio Fiestas, Filipino organization events, and the annual Simbang Gabi---the Filipino-British Community remains as committed as ever to the never-ending task of nation and community-building.
I likewise convey the Embassy's appreciation for the Community's involvement in the Working Visit of Her. Excellency President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo last September 2009. The Visit reaped immeasurable economic benefits for our country and people, highlighted the important roles played by global Filipinos in the UK, and further strengthened Philippine-UK relations.
As we take stock of the many accomplishments and challenges in the last twelve months, may we all likewise renew our commitment to become more involved and aware of developments in our beloved country including the well-being of our kababayans in the UK.
2010 promises to be another banner year for our Community as we exercise our sacred right of suffrage in the May national elections, continue previously-launched programs, and implement new initiatives to further bolster Philippines-UK relations and harness the collective talent of our Community in the UK.
Some of the programs we hope to undertake in the coming year include:
* Continuing Skills Education for Migrant Workers organized by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)
* Consular Outreach Missions
* Overseas Absentee Voting
* Post-Arrival Orientation Seminars for Newly-Arrived Filipinos (PAOS)
* Financial Learning Echo Seminars for Overseas Filipinos
* Economic and Trade Events
* Tourism Promotion Activities
* Political Awareness Fora/Group Discussions
* Cultural Events
In welcoming the new year, I reiterate the Embassy's continued support and assistance in your own projects and initiatives. Much can be achieved and realized through the commitment, resourcefulness, and dedication of our entire Community
Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon sa inyong lahat!
Antonio M. Lagdameo
Ambassador
London, 08 December 2009
Welcome Message
On behalf of the officers and personnel of the Philippine Embassy in London, I warmly welcome everyone to our new official website. It is my fervent hope that we can be of service to the country and of assistance to you with each of our interactions.
The Embassy is at the forefront of promoting the interests of the Philippines and protecting the welfare of Filipinos in the UK. We advance our country’s political and economic concerns within the international community, at the same time provide a comprehensive range of assistance to our kababayans.
We likewise work towards establishing greater friendship and cooperation between the Philippines and the UK, both on the national and personal levels.
Indeed, the Embassy’s work is always enhanced where there is greater support and participation from the people in the community. We therefore encourage everyone to be actively involved in all the Embassy activities you may see on this site.
I personally look forward to meeting as many members of the Philippine community as possible, and sincerely hope we have an opportunity to work together for our country.
Mabuhay!
H.E. Antonio M. Lagdameo
Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Court of St. James
