As the air turns crisp and the leaves turn golden these autumn months, I extend my warmest greetings to the Filipino community in Hong Kong and the devoted readers of Pangyao Magazine, a platform for cultural connections and understanding between migrant communities. 

We wish to update our dear community on the Philippine Consulate General’s recent efforts to promote Filipino culture through a series of events celebrating Filipino excellence and heritage from July to September.

First on the list is a showcase of culinary literature at the 35^th Hong Kong Book Fair followed by the participation and promotion of 21 Filipino food brands at the 3^rd Food Expo PRO. 

In addition, Hong Kong-based Filipino artists, fashion designer Mr John Marcus Mase and resin artist Mr Justine Velasquez were featured at the Consulate’s Sining Malaya Art Corner. We also launched the latest edition of Silid Kultura at the Sentro Rizal to guide Filipino children to be youth ambassadors of Philippine tourism. 

We further marked a milestone for Philippine cinema in Hong Kong. At the 3^rd ASEAN Film Festival, we featured Thy Womb by Mr. Brillante Mendoza, with the late “Superstar” Ms. Nora Aunor in her award-winning role and A Divine Comedy (Isang Komedya sa Langit) by Mr. Roi Paolo Calilong, starring veteran actor Jaime Fabregas. Sunshine by Ms. Antoinette Jadaone, starring Ms. Maris Racal, was also featured in the 10^th Asian Cinerama program. Together, these films honoured legacy, provoked thought, and showcased the evolving voice of Filipino storytellers. 

I am grateful for the community’s continued involvement in these cultural programs. Through film, literature, food, art, and youth engagement, Filipinos in Hong Kong have shown the world how creative, dynamic, and inspiring our people truly are. As we turn the page to October and November, we join the nation in observing commemorations that reflect the diversity, resilience, and values of the Filipino people. October honours our Indigenous communities and their enduring contributions to the nation, while November highlights the rights and potential of Filipino children wherever they may be in the world. 

November also calls for action and remembrance, as we traditionally do for our departed loved ones on All Saints’ Day. As in previous years, we will observe the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women, beginning November 25, and reaffirm our commitment to a future free from fear and harm. We will also commemorate Bonifacio Day on November 30, honouring the revolutionary spirit and heroism of Gat Andres Bonifacio. These are unique opportunities to reflect, act, and strengthen our shared commitment to dignity and solidarity. 

To stay informed, I encourage everyone to follow the Consulate’s Facebook page below. Filipino organisations may also register as Accredited Community Partners by emailing cultural.pcg@gmail.com for assistance. 

Maraming Salamat po! Mabuhay!