Philippine Consulate in New York Highlights Key Initiatives in Media Hour

Consul General Senen T. Mangalile unveils the significant initiatives of the Philippine Consulate General in New York during the Media Hour with the Filipino-American media. (Photo by Cathe Aguilar)

Consul General Senen T. Mangalile unveiled significant initiatives during the Philippine Consulate General in New York’s first Media Hour of the year, held on 23 January 2024. Reflecting on the past year, Consul General Mangalile highlighted achievements and expressed gratitude for the support received since taking office.

During the Media Hour, Consul General Mangalile announced the upcoming 2024 VIP Tour scheduled from 21 to 30 July 2024, covering Manila, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, and Bukidnon. The addition of the Mindanao leg to the tour presents exciting opportunities for more extensive interactions with local communities, contributing to the broader goal of promoting Philippine culture and heritage. Consul General Mangalile emphasized the importance of media support in promoting the tour, recognizing its potential impact on fostering cultural understanding.

The new officer designations were also introduced by the Consul General. With these changes, the Consul General emphasized the Consulate’s commitment and continuity in serving the Filipino community. He specifically highlighted the importance of delineating cultural diplomacy from community relations, noting that cultural diplomacy targets non-Filipinos while recognizing the Filipino community’s crucial role in promoting Filipino culture to a broader audience.

The Consul General also announced the full implementation of the e-payment system in the Consulate as an initiative to streamline consular services, offering efficiency and convenience for clients. Media representatives were encouraged to inform the public about this transition and its positive impact on consular services.

Looking ahead, Consul General Mangalile announced that the 10th Filipino Community General Assembly is scheduled for 24 February 2024 at the Philippine Center. He noted that the General Assembly would provide an opportunity for the Filipino American community and media to learn about the Consulate’s accomplishments and upcoming projects this year.

The Media Hour concluded with an engaging Q&A session, allowing media representatives to seek clarification and interact with the Consul General. Consul General Mangalile expressed gratitude for media support and welcomed their continued participation and support in the upcoming activities of the Consulate.

prpcgny240126