JAKARTA—The Filipino community in Indonesia, in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta, rolled out the “2019 Pinoy Fiesta: Atin Ito” event in April at the embassy grounds.
The two-day event manifested Filipino bayanihan in a true Filipino fiesta spirit. It highlighted Philippine culture and traditions, such as songs, dances, games and food: lechon, halu-halo, dinuguan, puto andbalut, among others. About a thousand Filipino community members in Indonesia attended
In his opening remarks, Ambassador to Indonesia Leehiong T. Wee acknowledged the unity and camaraderie of the Filipino community in Indonesia, led by the Organizing Committee Chairman Betty Abalos, who shared their time, talent and treasures in this festive event. Wee took pride in the professionalism and accomplishments of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Indonesia who are accountants, auditors, engineers and teachers who are respected by their Indonesian and foreign employers, as well as colleagues.
He also emphasized that the event is a celebration of the annual National Heritage Month established by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts not only in the Philippines, but also for OFWs around the world.
Amazed at the turnout of Filipinos during the event, Permanent Representative to Asean Ambassador Elizabeth P. Buensuceso mentioned that the Philippines is the only Asean country allowed by Indonesia to purchase land for two chanceries. She also invited the Filipino community to the Philippine Mission. DFA
Image credits: Jakarta PE