Filipino Community in Nicosia, Cyprus Celebrates 116th Independence Day and Migrant Workers Day

Philippine non-resident Ambassador to Cyprus Meynardo LB. Montealegre attended the joint celebration by the Filipino community in Cyprus of the 116th Philippine Independence Day and Migrant Workers Day on 6 July 2014 at the European University Cyprus in Nicosia. The event was organized by the POLO-OWWA Office led by Welfare Officer Sylvia Valdez with the support of Philippine Honorary Consul Shemaine Bushnell-Kyriakides. 
Filipinos from cities all over Cyprus such as Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos commemorated the “Araw ng Pasasalamat at Pagkakaisa” with a day-long celebration of nationalistic presentations and cultural performances.
Various Filipino community organizations showcased their talents in special numbers such as a group rendition of  a medley of Kundiman songs, a short skit on the history of the Philippines, and folk/ethnic dances. 
The event also recognized some 400 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who completed short courses on Greek Language, English Lessons, Basic Computer, Basic First Aid, Filipno Martial Arts, Business Counseling, Financial Literacy, Hair Cutting, Beauty Care, Beadwork, and Ballroom Dancing under the Reintegration Training Program of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the European Union. 
In his message, the Ambassador encouraged all Filipinos in Cyprus to invest by starting a small business in the Philippines. He also emphasized the role of every Filipino in creating a stable and prosperous republic.