INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR MIGRATION (IOM) COMIC STRIP COMPETITION

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INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR MIGRATION (IOM)
COMIC STRIP COMPETITION

The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah informs the Filipino Community in the Western Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Philippine Komiks Convention (KOMIKON), in collaboration with the Office of the United Nations and Other International Organizations (UNIO) of the Department of Foreign Affairs, are organizing a comic strip competition, in line with the 10th Anniversary of KOMIKON.

The aim of this competition is to promote the "Building Back Safer" rehabilitation concept of IOM to help the affected communities in the Visayas.

Below are the details of the contest as provided by IOM:

The comic strip should feature a main character: (1) He/she might be a Barangay Captain in a community that frequently gets affected by natural disaster; (2) The comic element is the way this character deals with government/humanitarian agencies.

Contest is open to all cartoonists both amateurs and professionals, and are limited to only one entry. Entries should adhere to the given theme. Entries deviating from the theme shall be automatically disqualified.

Submit soft copies of a series of four comic strips on 3" x 10", fully drawn with stories that could be disseminated weekly, to email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Prizes:

Main Prize – Apple IPad
1 Consolation Prize – P 5,000.00 worth of SM gift certificates

Deadline for the submission of entries is on 25 July 2014. For more information, please contact the organizers by sending an email message to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or toThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..end.

Further Measures to Contain MERS-CoV

The Philippine Consulate General would like to reiterate to the public that Filipino health workers who have been exposed to MERS-CoV patients should undergo testing and strictly follow infection control protocols in your work place.

As previously stated, a MERS-CoV clearance for OFWs returning to the Philippines is not required. Nevertheless, if you are planning to travel or go on vacation to the Philippines, you are enjoined to undergo testing voluntarily for your and your loved ones' assurance and peace of mind. This will also help avoid possible delays upon arrival at airports in the Philippines where strict screening for MERS-CoV and other pandemics are now being enforced(END).

MERS-CoV Clearance for OFWs Returning to the Philippines: Not Required

The Philippine Consulate General would like to inform the public that medical clearances are not required for returning OFWs from KSA and other Middle East countries.

Nevertheless, the Consulate would like to reiterate the advisory issued earlier by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Department of Health for Filipino Communities in the Middle East on MERS-CoV which is available in the Consulate's website, www.pcgjeddah.org.

In particular, our Kababayans are advised to avoid going out unnecessarily in order to minimize risk of being infected. "Travel spreads the virus - no travel, no transmission."

If you have been or may have been possibly exposed to MERS-CoV patients, undergo MERS-Cov testing, postpone any trip abroad and wait for the result to turn negative before travelling anywhere.

Visit your doctor, a hospital or health facility immediately if symptoms of MERS-CoV manifest itself, including persistent coughing. If you were in close contact with a confirmed MERS-CoV patient, comply with test results. (End)

CONSULATE "TURNS BLUE"

Starting on the evening of 02 April 2014, the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Jeddah illuminated the façade of its chancery with blue light in observance of the 7th World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) pursuant to Resolution 62/139 which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly and as requested by the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA).

On the same day, the Consulate also uploaded in its website the NCDA logo and theme "Understanding and Embracing people with Autism" to intensify public awareness particularly of the Filipino Community in Jeddah and the Western Region on autism and stir public consciousness on the acceptability of persons with autism as members of society.

To draw more public consciousness of the event, the Consulate will continue to be blue and shall post the NCDA logo on its website until 9 April. End.

Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah
Celebrates International Women's Month

In celebration of the International Women's Month, the Philippine Consulate held a "Women's Forum cum Film showing" activity at its Community Hall on 29 March 2014.

Consul Germinia Aguilar-Usudan, the sole lady senior officer in the Consulate, welcomed the attendees that were mainly composed of Filipino Community representatives from the Kapit-Bisig organization, spouses of officers and staff of the Consulate and wards of the Filipino Women Resource Center (FWRC). Consul Usudan emphasized the vital importance of women in our society today.

In a powerpoint presentation entitled "Inspiring Change", during the forum, Dr. Omega Garibay, spouse of Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay, explained the rationale of the Magna Carta for Women or RA 9710 which institutionalized gender equality and women's empowerment, ensured the equal access of Filipino women to resources and development outcomes, and protection from violence. She, however, also reminded everyone that "every right involves a corresponding responsibility to others and society". She further credited Filipino women who made an important impact in the Filipino society saying:

"Let us cherish what the women leaders of yesteryears have done for us, as we support the women leaders of our present time who continue what they have begun. We give them tribute by taking control of our own lives and prove we are equal partners in shaping a more humane world. Let us make full use of RA 9710, otherwise known as Magna Carta for Women to realize our full potentials and become better individuals as we contribute to the development of our nation and bring compassion to the whole world…"

"My House Husband", which won the Quezon City Gender Sensitive Film Award in the 2011 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), the featured film, was an enthralling and fitting conclusion to the Consulates celebration of the International Women's Month. The domestic drama about a middle-class macho husband who loses his job and ends up with doing household chores usually done by women, and stars the real life marital partners Ryan Agoncillo and Judy Ann Santos, placed in proper context and perspective the welcome remarks and presentation of Consul Usudan and Madame Garibay, respectively.

A select group of FWRC wards, which performed an interpretative song-dance number provided apt intermission between the forum and the film-showing. END.

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL PARTICIPATED IN THE
AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF JEDDAH'S
"INTERNATIONAL DAY"

On 27 March 2014, in fulfilling its public and cultural diplomacy functions, the Philippine Consulate General(PCG) in Jeddah participated in the American International School of Jeddah (AISJ)'s "International Day" celebration at the school's campus.

During the activity, the AISJ opened its campus to the public and welcomed parents and invitees of different nationalities to offer them glimpses of countries around the world. This is meant to enhance the cultural awareness of their local and international students, as well as their parents, to the various countries that compose the international community in Jeddah. Booths were set up around the campus' football field, by fifteen (15) Consulates. The PCG distributed tourism brochures, Philippine snacks and other food products.

Traditional songs and dances were performed during the event, which started at 12:00 p.m. and ended at 7:00 pm. The Filipino parents and students of AISJ performed the "Tinikling" dance during the occasion. End

Philippine Film Night held at the Philippine Consulate General

Jeddah, 22 March 2014 - The Philippine documentary film "Phoning from the Philippines" and a feature film "Thy Womb" were screened during the Philippine Movie Night held at the open ground of the Philippine Consulate General on 20 March 2014. The screening was part of the 7th Asian Consuls General Club (ACGC) Film Festival 2014, organized by the Asian Consuls General Club (ACGC). The festival started on 10 March 2014 and will conclude on 31 March, and features 11 movies from Japan, Brunei, Korea, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Philippines, India, China, Singapore, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Indonesia.

Around 300 people consisting of diplomats (including officers and staff and spouses of the Consulate), foreign nationals and movie lovers from the Filipino community and Philippine curriculum schools in Jeddah. The annual festival provided an opportunity for the Philippine Consulate to showcase recent advances in Philippine independent cinema while promoting its public and cultural diplomacy programs.

In his welcome remarks, H.E. Mr. Uriel Norman R. Garibay, Consul General of the Philippines in Jeddah, welcomed the guests and thanked them for coming. He also thanked the donors for their support and commended the Philippine Consulate staff for preparing the place and coming up with a beautiful setting for the evening's film showing. Before the screening of "Thy Womb", Consul General Garibay, with pride, informed the guests about the several acclamations the film had garnered. He mentioned that the film, which is directed by Brillante Mendoza (who was kind enough to provide the Consulate with a free DVD copy), and starred in by Nora Aunor, Bembol Roco and Lovi Poe, a multi awarded stars had been exhibited in several international film festival and had won several awards both internationally and locally.

During the film showing, guests were given a taste of Philippine food products that include San Miguel beer, a non alcoholic beer, buko juice, chocolate cookies, empanada, buko pandan and pancit canton. After the film screening, the official video of "The Philippines says Thank You' was shown to the audience as a way of thanking the world for the help extended to the victims of the typhoon Yolanda. The night was capped with the raffle of prizes which include baskets of Philippine food products and the guests left the venue delighted and entertained with the films they saw, the food served and some promotional items received. For the depth of symbolisms in story (set in an Islamic community), superb direction and outstanding audio and cinematography, "Thy Womb" was well-acclaimed during the film night. END.

3RD ANNIVERSARY FORUM OF ARANGKADA PHILIPPINES,
"MORE REFORMS=MORE JOBS!, 26 FEBRUARY 2014

The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah informs the Filipino community in the Western Region of the Kingdom that the Joint Foreign Chambers (JFC) of the Philippines has requested the assistance of the Department of Foreign Affairs in promoting the live stream of the Third Anniversary Forum of Arangkada Philippines entitled More Reforms=More Jobs! on 26 February 2014.

Prospects for the Philippine economy and major recommendations on Agribusiness, Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Tourism, Justice, Governance, and Education will be discussed by speakers and panels.

Published by the JFC in December 2010, Arangkada Philippines 2010: A Business Perspective is a comprehensive advocacy paper featuring 471 recommendations made in nine focus group discussions by nearly 300 Filipino and foreign investors. Arangkada targets for the creation of US$75 billion foreign direct investment and the creation of 10 million jobs, and over a trillion Pesos in tax revenue for the Philippine economy within a decade.

For more information on the Arangkada Philippines Forum, visit http://www.arangkadaphilippines.com/forum or contact Mr. John Vincent C. Pimentel at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or + (63) (2) 751-1495.

"JEDDAH ART WEEK 2014 OPENS, "KAKAIBANG JEDDAH!
PHOTO EXHIBIT" PARTICIPATES

H.E. Mr. Uriel Norman Garibay (standing at the center) with some of the 23 Jeddah-based Filipino photographers during the soft opening of the Jeddah Art Week 2014 held at the Al Furusiya Exhibition Hall, Jeddah Park Hyatt Hotel on 31 January 2014. Also in the photo is Madame Omega A. Garibay (standing, 7th from right)

Jeddah - 04 February 2014 - The weeklong Jeddah Art Week opened on 31 January 2014 at the Al Furusiya Exhibition Hall, Jeddah Park Hyatt Hotel. Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay, together with the Saudi Labor Minister Adel Fakeih, Mr. Saud Kateb, representative from the Ministry of Culture and Information and Mr. Mohammed Jameel, Chairman of the Abdul Latif Jameel Community Initiatives (ALJCI) (the sponsor), gathered to open the exhibit. They then viewed the various art works (e.g. visual culture, including paintings and sculptures, photography and multi-media) being offered.

Labor Minister Adel Fakeih praised the organizers for showcasing a diverse range of artwork, particularly, the exhibition by Filipino photographers. Fakeih was pleasantly surprised with the various artworks that were presented by the Filipino workers. He pointed out that the Saudi government would like to encourage guest workers in the Kingdom to share their experiences while living in Saudi cities and interacting culturally with Saudi society. Further, he said that, for its part, Ministry of Labor is going to further encourage various expat communities to participate in future Saudi Arabia's cultural activities.

On 02 February 2014, KAKAIBANG JEDDAH! Photo exhibit opened in JAW 2014. Consul General Garibay welcomed guests that included the Consuls General of Sri Lanka, Singapore, Korea, Indonesia, Germany and Japan. Members of the Filipino community in Jeddah and Consulate staff also attended the event. "KAKAIBANG JEDDAH" brought together for the first time the photographic works of 23 Filipino photographers that celebrates Jeddah as a subject of photographic art and explores its lesser-known aspects that are popular to and enjoyed by Filipino workers. 48 works in display are printed on aluminum and feature the old streets and buildings of Jeddah like those in Balad, as well as scenes at Jeddah's Corniche (Red Sea front).

Consul General Garibay described said the exhibit as a recognition of the talent of Filipinos. He expressed that there would be more exhibitions in future in other areas of expat interest. He praised the works of the Filipino participants as magnificent as they provide a different subject perspective for photography and the arts.

JAW's 2014 events will run until 06 February at the Al Furusiya Exhibition Hall.

Jeddah Art Week started in 2013 with the object of providing an opportunity for artists to be together and to share their experiences; to encourage the public to appreciate Jeddah's "public space" more creatively; and to showcase Jeddah's creative art and design culture while increasing the City's engagement with the international art community. It is under the patronage of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture and Information and Abdul Latif Jameel Community Initiatives (ALJCI). END.

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE IN JEDDAH ASSISTS 147 WOMEN AND CHILDREN OBTAIN EXIT VISAS

PHOTO: Philippine Consulate representatives led by Vice Consul Jim Minglana assist 94 female OFWs and their 53 children in boarding buses that will take them to the Saudi processing center for exit visas. The Consulate expects about one thousand remaining stranded OFWs, most of them staying in the makeshift "tent city" in Jeddah, to avail of the special arrangement with the Saudi authorities and the free transportation provided by the Philippine government. The center is located 60km outside Jeddah.

27 Jan 2014 - After one hundred male OFWs were endorsed for repatriation the previous day, it was now the turn of 94 females and their 53 children to receive assistance from the Philippine Consulate in the processing of exit visas at the General Services Center (GSC) facility in Al-Shumaisy, about 60 km outside Jeddah.

The Consulate and Saudi authorities are working together to finally repatriate the remaining 1,000 or so stranded OFWs through a special arrangement of bringing in 100 OFWs every day to GSC. The Consulate provides buses and provisions such as food and water in the transport of the Filipinos.

KAKAIBANG JEDDAH! PHOTO EXHIBIT

The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah informs the Filipino community in the Western Region of the Kingdom that a photo exhibit featuring an all-Filipino Photographers Ensemble will be held in celebration of the Second Edition of Jeddah Art Week from 01 – 06 February 2014.

"Kakaibang Jeddah! Photo exhibit" brings together for the first time the photographic works of 23 Filipino photographers that celebrate Jeddah and explore lesser-known aspects of the city that the Filipino workers enjoy. 48 works printed on aluminum will be exhibited as part of JAW 2014.

Jeddah Art Week is under the Patronage of Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture and Information, and Abdul Latif Jameel Community Initiatives. During the weeklong event, the audiences will be treated to visual culture, including paintings and sculptures, photography and multi-media. For additional information and a full list of events, please visit www.jeddahartweek.com.

All Filipino art lovers in the Western Region of the Kingdom are invited to attend the opening of the photo exhibition on Sunday, 02 February 2014 at 7:00 PM to be held at Al Furusiya Exhibition Hall, Jeddah Park Hyatt Hotel. End.

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE IN JEDDAH TO SEND HOME REMAINING 1,000 TENT CITY CAMPERS IN THE COMING DAYS

PHOTO: Philippine Consulate representatives led by Vice Consul RJ Sumague brief 100 stranded OFWs before they board the bus to the Saudi processing center for exit visas. The Consulate expects about one thousand remaining stranded OFWs, most of them staying in the makeshift "tent city" in Jeddah, to avail of the special arrangement with the Saudi authorities and the free transportation provided by the Philippine government. The center is located 60km outside Jeddah.

26 Jan 2014 The Philippine Consulate in Jeddah successfully negotiated with Saudi Immigration and Deportation officials in sending home the remaining one thousand stranded OFWs. Beginning January 26, the Consulate can bring 100 Filipinos daily to the General Services Center (GSC) facility in Al-Shumaisy, about 60 km outside Jeddah, through a special arrangement with the host government.

The OFWs – all males – boarded buses provided by the Philippine government. They are among the almost 8,000 who approached the Consulate beginning April last year for assistance in the issuance of exit visas by the Saudi authorities. The Consulate will transport men and women (and their children) on alternate days.

The rest of the passengers came from those camped outside the Consulate. There are up to 1,000 overstaying OFWs who wish to be repatriated. Most of them are staying at makeshift tents. The Consulate maintains a shelter open to displaced OFWs but most opt to stay at the "tent city".

The Consulate repatriated at least 4,167 Filipinos in 2013, a year of crisis in mass repatriation which was brought about by the Kingdom's intense campaign against illegal workers. The number is four times the 1,197 deported by Saudi Arabia in 2012 and more than the 3,720 in 2011 when the host government issued an amnesty in repatriation of overstaying workers.

Post representatives proceed daily to the GSC to monitor and report on the progress of the exit visa processing and the final departure of the OFWs. END

18th Autism Consciousness Week

The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah informs the Filipino community in the Western Region of the Kingdom that, pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 711 dated 04 January 1996, every third week of January of the year has been declared as Autism Consciousness Week.

From 19-25 January 2014, everyone is enjoined to observe the Autism Consciousness Week with the theme, "Katuparan ng mga Karapatan ng Pilipinong May Autismo: Isulong Mo, Ngayon Na!", which primary aims is to intensify public awareness on the rights of persons with autism.

This year's observance is quite significant as it coincides with the celebration of the 25th year of advocacy of the Autism Society Philippines. Various activities being undertaken by agencies aim to increase awareness about autism spectrum disorder and how it affects individuals, families and the society as a whole.

For additional information about the celebration, please visit the website of the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) at www.ncda.gov.ph. End.

2014 Search for Outstanding Public Officials & Employees

The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah informs the Filipino community in the Western Region of the Kingdom that the Civil Service Commission (CSC) has recently launched the 2014 Annual Search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees.

The search seeks to promote excellence and will recognize, as well as, reward civil servants for outstanding performance, contribution and achievements, and/or consistent manifestation of exemplary ethical behavior in the public service. This is in accord with the Civil Service law, which provides that, the CSC shall act as the Honor Awards Program (HAP) Secretariat and shall conduct an annual search for public service exemplars.

The Search covers three (3) award categories, namely: the Presidential Lingkod Bayad Award, the Outstanding Public Officials and Employees Award or the Dangal ng Bayan Award, and the Civil Service Commission Pagasa Award.

Nominated officials and employees in the individual, group/team category must meet the following qualifications:

Have rendered at least three (3) years of continuous government service. Accomplishments for which nominee is being recognized for should be made within the last three (3) years immediately prior to nomination. Said accomplishments should have been consistent and continuously carried out by the nominee during the said period;
Have a performance rating of at least Very Satisfactory or its equivalent for four (4) semestral or two (2) annual rating periods prior to the nomination; and
Have not been found guilty of any administrative or criminal offense involving moral turpitude at the time of nomination.

The guidelines and nomination forms may be secured from the CSC Regional and Field offices nationwide or downloaded at the CSC website www.csc.gov.ph.

For inquiries, the HAP Secretariat may be reached through telephone numbers (02) 931-7993, (02) 932-0381, (02) 932-0111, TextCSC: 0917-839-8272 or email addresses: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Nominations to the 2014 Search for Outstanding Public Officials and Employees under the Presidential or Lingkod Bayan, the Outstanding Public Officials and Employees or the Dangal ng Bayan and CSC or Pagasa Awards categories must be submitted to any Civil Service Commission Provincial/Field or Regional Office on or before 31 March 2014.

TYPHOON YOLANDA (international code: Haiyan)

22 Jan 13 - The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) publishes the Reconstruction Assistance on Yolanda (RAY) on 16 December 2013.

RAY is the Government's strategic plan to guide the recovery and reconstruction of the economy, lives, and livelihoods in the affected areas. The objective of the plan is to restore the economic and social conditions of these areas at the very least to their pre-typhoon levels and to a higher level of disaster resilience.

The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah wishes to inform the Filipino community in the Western Region of the effects of Typhoon Yolanda (international code name: Haiyan), which left the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) at 1:30PM last 09 November 2013, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

Search for the missing people? htttp://google.org/personfinder/2013-yolanda/

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL IN JEDDAH COMMEMORATES THE
117TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY OF DR. JOSE RIZAL

The officers and staff of the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, led by Consul Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr., Acting Head of Post, commemorated the 117th death anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal with a simple ceremony on 29 December 2013 at the lobby, 3rd floor of the Consulate.

The program started with the singing of the Philippine national anthem and the recitation of oath of allegiance (Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas). It was followed by the wreath laying ceremony in honor of Dr. Jose Rizal, which was headed by Consul Ausan and assisted by Consul Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan, Vice Consul Rodney Jonas L. Sumague and Labor Attache Jainal Rasul, Jr.

Consul Ausan then delivered his message, underscoring Dr. Jose Rizal's great love for the country and countless contribution to the nation. He mentioned that Dr. Jose Rizal's strength of character traits and values are worthy of emulation by each and every Filipino. He stressed that the best way of honoring Dr. Jose Rizal, and all our other heroes, is learning and living by their examples.

Vice Consul Sumague then led in the recitation of the "Huling Paalam", the tagalog version of "Mi Ultimo Adios" or "My Last Farewell", the last poem written by Dr. Jose Rizal, as translated by Jose Gatmaytan. The community singing of "Ako'y Isang Pinoy", which followed, further added solemnity to the event. A photo session of the officers and staff around Rizal's bust monument capped the program.

Thereafter, the attendees gathered at the Community hall, located at the 2nd floor of the Consulate, for a simple "salo-salo" to mark the last working day of 2013. Everyone partook of the Filipino food prepared by each section, composed of pancit, suman, arrozcaldo and chicken embutido, to name a few. End.

Department of Tourism (DOT) conducted a Philippine Product Presentation to key
cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

A Philippine Product Presentation was conducted by the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) Market Development Group in a hosted dinner reception for representatives of the KSA travel industry, with the collaboration with the Philippine Consulate, on 15 December 2013 at the Consulate's grounds. The key objective of the product presentatiol") is to generate awareness about the country's numerous travel destinations and increase the number of Philippine programs offered in the KSA market place. Hopefully, these will contribute to increase the number of KSA tourist visiting the Philippines in the years ahead.

The product presentation was conducted by Messrs. Raymund Glen Agustin, DOT's Division Chief of the Russia, India and Middle East Market Development Group (RIMEIVlDG), and Stalingrad Samson, Desk Officer for the KSA Market. During his welcome remarks, Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay warmly welcomed all the honored guests from the travel, tourism and business sectors in Jeddah and the Western region, numbering around 60. The Consul General informed them that, per DOT's report, as of August 2013, arrivals from the KSA have already reached 27,094, posting a growth rate of 35.12% over 2012 January-August figures. In August alone, the growth reached 132%. Consul General Garibay invited everyone to visit the Philippines and make it their favorite and long term tourist destination in Southeast Asia.

The guests were impressed by the DOT's product presentation conducted by Mr. Agustin that was followed by a video showing of popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. Cultural dance numbers (a Maranao and Fruit Festival dances, Kapa Malong-malong and Pakiring) presented by students of the International Philippine School in Jeddah (IPSJ) provided entertainment to the guests. Everyone also enjoyed the dinner prepared for them that consisted of Philippine menu such as Caldereta and Pancit Bihon. The DOT distributed to the guests souvenir items, prizes from raffle draw, and promotional materials/brochures, at the end of the presentation.

During their one (1) day stay in Jeddah, the DOT delegation conducted business and sales calls to top travel, leisure and holiday agents. They travelled to Riyadh on, 16 December 2013, the next day for a similar product presentation session on 18 December 2013.

The Philippine Consulate in Jeddah conducted Consular Mobile Service (CMS) in Khamis Mushayt

26 December 2013 . The Philippine Consulate in Jeddah conducted Consular Mobile Service (CMS) in Khamis Mushayt on 19-21 December 2013 to provide services to thousands of Filipinos in the Assir Region which covers the areas of Abha, Khamis Mushayt, Najran, Jizan, Bisha, AI Namas, AI Baha, Muhayl & Sharourah. Khamis Mushayt where the Mobile
Service was conducted is 662.9 km. from Jeddah.

The CMS is a composite team of the Philippine Consulate's Consular Section, POLO-OVVWA and SSS. It rendered the following services: birth registration, passport renewal, notarials, c.o unseling and SSS registration .

The three-day CMS was able to process 1,060 passport renewals and more than 100 notarials.

The Consular Team was headed by Consul Germinia Aguilar-Usudan, who was joined by Welfare Officer Maria Victoria G. Demingoy, Emmanuel D. Espineli, Joel P. Pangilinan, Jessie B. Lucas, Raida S. Acraman, Julieta G. Souribio-Khafaga, Alicia A. Ulep, Ronaldo S. Reyes, Abdulbasir P. Sua and John L Sibbaluca (SSS Representative) .

537 OFWs Repatriated Before the Holidays

19 December 2013Relentless representations, coordination and cooperation for a month with the Saudi Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Interior, finally bore fruit this week, when in just two (2) days, 16 and 17 December, 537 illegal OFWs, who did not make the 3 November deadline of the royal grace period to either correct their work and immigration status or be sent home, were finally repatriated to the Philippines.

On 16 December in the evening, 195 women, 59 children and 3 men, or a total of 257, were flown to Manila on board special Saudi Airlines flight SV3874. On 17 December, also in the evening, 186 women and 94 children, or a total of 280, followed on board another special Saudi Airlines SV 3876. Thus far, these are the biggest numbers of OFWs repatriated in a single day this year. The plane tickets for both flights were shouldered by the Saudi government.

During the two-day repatriation, Consul General Uriel Norman Garibay and the officers and staff of the Consulate in Jeddah were on hand from dawn till nightfall to provide complete documentation and other related assistance to the OFWs in order to ensure that everyone of them shall be able to depart as scheduled.
All of the women and children formed part of the large group of OFWs who voluntarily surrendered to Saudi immigration authorities at the General Services Center (deportation center) at Al Shumaisy on 10 November.

As of today, only 52 women and 39 children, or a total of 92 OFWs remain at Al Shumaisy. They could have easily departed with the 537 OFWs, if not for the need to subject them anew to the fingerprinting process of the Jawazat (Passport Directorate) in order to be issued exit visas. The Consulate is making arrangements for this to be done soon.

Consul General Garibay thanked MFA and Interior officials at Al Shumaisy for facilitating the repatriation of the OFWs in time for the December holidays in the Philippines. END

Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah celebrates the
150th Birth Anniversary of Andres Bonifacio

04 December 2013 – The Philippine Consul General to Jeddah, HE Uriel Norman R. Garibay led the officers and staff of the PCG Jeddah, including the attached agencies, and spouses, in the flag retreat ceremony on Thursday, 28 November 2013 held at the PCG rooftop to celebrate the sesquicentennial birth anniversary of Andres Bonifacio on 30 November 2013.

Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay (1st from right, 1st row), led the officers and staff of the Philippine Consulate General inJeddah in the Flag Retreat Ceremony on 28 November 2013 to commemorate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Andres Bonifacio.

Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay delivering hisinspirational remarks during the celebration of the 150thbirth anniversary of Andres Bonifacio on 28 November 2013 held at the PCG Jeddah Community Hall.

After the flag retreat ceremony, the attendees numbering around fifty (50), moved to the PCG Hall for the continuation of the ceremony. Consul General Garibay delivered his inspirational remarks wherein he noted the relevant highlights on the life story of Andres Bonifacio, and the latter's thirsts for knowledge. He also mentioned that the founder and supreme leader of the Katipunan's love for his country and countrymen has become an inspiration to

all Filipinos. It was followed by a short audiovisual presentation and reading of the chronology of the life and times of Andres Bonifacio by some personnel from the Labor section.

The short ceremony was followed by a program to recognize the twelve (12) awardees of the 2013 Loyalty and outstanding employee awards; welcome the newly arrived personnel and bid farewell to outgoing personnel.

Consul General Garibay also presented certificates of appreciation to seven (7) Temporary Local Staff (who are spouses and dependents of the Consulate) in recognition of their dedicated service and commendable performance from 14 May 2013 to 28 November 2013 during the operations undertaken by the Consulate for the repatriation and rectification of work status of Filipinos. Likewise, a certificate of appreciation were also distributed to five (5) spouses and dependents in grateful recognition of their invaluable support and assistance as volunteers during the said operations.

The activity ended with a simple Filipino dinner prepared by the Consulate. END

(Left photo) Consul General Garibay was congratulated byConsu lLeo Tito L. Ausan, Jr. as the latter handed over the certificate for 2013 Loyalty awards (20 yrs. of service),and Consul Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan received her Loyalty certificate for 25 yrs. of service in the Department (right photo)


Ms. Ligaya De Jesus receives from Consul General Garibay her certificate as2013 Outstanding Employee Award during her stint in RCO Davao	PCG Jeddah welcomes newly arrived personnel from DFA, POLO & OWWA	Consul General Garibay (6th from left) posed with the Temporary local staff and volunteer spouses and dependents after distributing certificates of appreciation in recognition oftheir support and assistance to the Consulates. Consul Ausan (6th from right) receivesthe certificate in behalf of his spouse, Mrs. Agnes Ausan, who is presently in the Philippines.


PCG Jeddah families enjoyed the salo-salo of Filipino food after the program with Consul General Garibay (right, left photo)
and with Madame Omega Garibay (right).

TYPHOON YOLANDA (international code: Haiyan)

12 Nov 2013 - The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah wishes to inform the Filipino community in the Western Region of the effects of Typhoon Yolanda (international code name: Haiyan), which left the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) at 1:30PM last 09 November 2013, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

Per NDRRMC SitRep No. 12, as of 6:00 AM, 11 November 2013, 255 individuals were reported dead, 71 injured and 38 are still missing. A total of 2,095,262 families or 9,679,059 persons were affected in7,251 barangays in 471 municipalities and 51 cities in 41 provinces of Regions IV-A, IV-B, V, VI, VII, X, XI, and CARAGA. The number of damaged houses increased to 23,190 houses (13,473 totally / 9,717 partially) in Regions IV-A, VI, VIII, X, XI, and CARAGA. A total of Ph296,505,629.05 worth of damages to infrastructure (PhP38,997,500.00) and agriculture (PhP257,508,129.05) was reported in Regions IV-B, V, VI, and CARAGA.

Filipino community groups and private entities are advised that cash donations are preferred and would be appreciated by NDRRMC, Philippine Red Cross or DSWD and could be sent to the following:

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)
Account name: NDRRMC Donated Funds
Account Numbers: 0435-021927-030 (Peso Account); 0435-021927-530 (US Dollar Account);
Swift Code: DBPHPHMM Account #36002016
Bank Address: Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Camp Aguinaldo Branch, PVAO Compound, Camp Aguinaldo Quezon City, Philippines 1110

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
Account No. 3124-0055-81
Bank Address: Land Bank of the Philippines, Batasan, Quezon City
Contact person: Ms. Fe Catalina Ea, Cash Division
Contact numbers: +63-2-931 8101 local 226, mobile +63-918 628 1897
Website: www.dswd.gov.ph

Philippine Red Cross (PRC)
Banco de Oro: 00-453-0018647 (Peso), 10-453-0039482 (USD)
Swift code: BNORPHMM
Metro Bank: 151-3-041631228 (Pesos), 151-2-15100218-2 (USD)
Swift code: MBTCPHMM
Philippine National Bank: 3752-8350-0034 (Peso), 3750-8350-0042 (USD)
Swift code: PNBMPHMM
Union Bank of the Philippines: 1015 4000 0201 (Peso), 1315 4000 0090 (USD)
Swift code: UBPHPHMM

2014 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) recently announced the formal launch of the 2014 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas to give due recognition to Filipinos and other individuals or organizations who have either contributed to Philippine development initiatives, or promoted the interests of overseas Filipino communities. The awards shall also be given to overseas Filipinos who have exceptionally distinguished themselves in their work or profession, thereby bringing honor to the Filipino nation. Additionally, a distinct category in the awards is reserved for foreign individuals or organizations for their exceptional contribution to the Philippines and for advancing the cause of overseas Filipino communities.

The four categories of awards to be conferred on Filipino individuals and private organizations overseas are as follows: (1) Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (Linkapil) Award; (2) Banaag Award; (3) Kaanib ng Bayan Award; (4) Pamana ng Pilipino Award.

Interested parties may obtain copies of the Award's primer, rules and guidelines including criteria, and nomination and endorsement forms from either the Philippine Consulate General or the CFO website: http://www.presidentialawards.cfo.gov.ph.

All nominations submitted through mail or online must be received by the CFO on or before 31 May 2014. Non-submission of required documents may be a cause for disqualification of the nominee by the Technical Committee from the awards.

SEARCH FOR THE 2013 BAGONG BAYANI AWARDEES

The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah informs the Filipino community in the Western Region of the Kingdom that, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the deadline for submission of nominations for the Search for the 2013 Bagong Bayani Awardees has been extended to 28 February 2014.

The Bagong Bayani Awards (BBA) is a national search for the country's outstanding and exemplary Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The Awards seek to recognize and pay tribute to our OFWs for their significant efforts in fostering goodwill among peoples of the world, enhancing and promoting the image of the Filipino as a competent, responsible and dignified worker, and for greatly contributing to the socio-economic development of their communities and our country as a whole.

There are five (5) award categories: (1) Bagong Bayani Award for Outstanding Employee; (2) Bagong Bayani Award for Community and Social Service; (3) Bagong Bayani Award for Culture and the Arts; (4) Capt. Gregorio S. Oca Achievement Award; and (5) Blas F. Ople Ward para sa Natatanging Bagong Bayani.

Any Filipino working overseas, whether land-based or sea-based, and possessing the following qualifications, may be nominated for pre-qualification:

Must be or have been an OFW for at least two (2) years;
Has no past or present criminal or derogatory record;
Must be of good moral standing, or has received recognition from past or present employer for exemplary behavior or outstanding service; and
The employment contract must have been processed by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA).

For additional information about the awards, please visit the Bagong Bayani Foundation, Inc.'s website at www.bbfi.com.ph. Official nomination forms may be obtained from Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) or the Cultural Section of the Consulate or may be downloaded at the BBFI's website.

All nominations must be transmitted to BAGONG BAYANI FOUNDATION, INC.-SECRETARIAT, Employment and Welfare Office, Ground Floor, Blas F. Ople Bldg., Ortigas Ave., cor EDSA Mandaluyong City 1501 Philippines, Tel. (632) 722 1165, Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

NOTICE ON PHILIPPINE FOREIGN SERVICE OFFICER (FSO)
EXAMINATIONS in 2013

21 October 2013. The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah wishes to announce that the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines will conduct the Second FOREIGN SERVICE OFFICER (FSO) EXAMINATIONS in 2013 to recruit candidates for appointment to the position of Foreign Service Officer, Class IV.

The FSO Examination is composed of five (5) parts: (1) Career Service Examination for Foreign Service Officer (CSE-FSO); (2) Preliminary Interview; (3) Written Test; (4) Psychological Test; and (5) Oral Test.

Prospective applicants shall meet the following requirements:

Citizenship – applicants should be natural-born Filipino citizens and concurrently permanent residents of the Philippines for at least one (1) year.

Age - Applicant must be less than thirty-five (35) years of age on the day of the CSE-FSO or on 15 December 2013.

Education – Applicants should have at least graduated from a four (4) year bachelor's degree course or higher on or before the prescribed due date of submission of requirements, and shall present the transcript of records, and either the diploma, certificate of graduation or its equivalent, from a college or university of recognized standing.

Work Experience or Further Studies – Applicants should have undergone at least two (2) years employment or further studies or a combination of both after graduating from college or university.

Application form and other related information can be downloaded from the DFA website (www.dfa.gov.ph) or can be obtained from the Philippine Consulate at telephone numbers: 669-6303 or 667-0925 extension 210, fax number: 669-6797 or email add: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Deadline for submission of application is 08 November 2013 (Friday). End.

"TENT CITY" OFW BEING ASSISTED BY THE PHILIPPINE CONSULATE IN JEDDAH DIES

OFW Luis B. Belesta, one of the "tent city" occupants being assisted by the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah regarding his repatriation, passed away on the night of 6 October 2013, reportedly due to complications brought by an asthma attack.

A fellow Filipino called the Consulate and the Saudi Red Crescent for assistance but he was pronounced dead by the medical team that responded. The Consulate's case office Alex Emam was dispatched to coordinate with the police. Migrante members were also present and they brought Belesta to the Dr. Erfan and Bagedo General Hospital.

Late OFW Belesta, 41 years old, sought the Consulate's help earlier in May in his desire to be repatriated during the grace period set by the King. He was issued a travel document and was assisted through all steps of the repatriation process starting with the securing of a reference number at the Saudi Deportation. He was able to undergo the biometrics procedure after that and was awaiting the final exit visa issuance by the host government when he passed away.

Belesta was previously hospitalized at the ICU of the same hospital in July for severe asthma attack. The Philippine Consulate paid Belesta's hospitalization expenses amounting to SR10,310 (USD2,749). He was observed to have fully recovered following his release from the hospital.

OFW Belesta worked as a waiter and originally came from Riyadh. The Philippine Consulate is now arranging with Saudi authorities on the shipment of his remains to his family in the Philippines. END

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE IN JEDDAH SENDS HOME 1,545 OFWS, CONTINUES TO ASSIST REMAINING 266 TENT CITY DWELLERS and 1,800 MORE OFWS

The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Jeddah reports that, as of 30 September 2013, it has repatriated 1,545 stranded Filipinos who availed of Saudi Arabia's grace period for correction of legal and work status.

The repatriates include 664 men, 510 women and 371 children. The Philippine Consulate shouldered the tickets of almost 1,400 of these Filipinos. The rest obtained tickets through the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Jeddah or through their previous employers.

These countrymen are among the more than 6,000 who approached the Consulate when the King's order for the grace period for correction of legal and work status took effect in May and after the "tent city" crisis started in April this year.

There now remains 266 tent city occupants. PCG's count peaked to about 1,200 in late April. There are also 55 women and their 35 children who are left from more than 150 women and their almost 100 children housed at one time at the PCG shelter.

In two weeks, 30 of the tent city occupants and those in the PCG shelter will be flying home while 179 will be obtaining their exit visas soon. There are 36 who are not covered by the amnesty and they are now being handled by POLO. The remaining numbers are continuously being assisted by the Consulate in clearing their previous police or traffic records.

Jeddah PCG is assisting 1,400 Filipinos more with the final stage of their exit visa processing and 400 more with the initial steps of the repatriation which starts with the securing of a reference number followed by biometrics procedure at the Deportation. The Philippine Consulate attends to all Filipinos in all steps of the exit visa processing and expects to send home 1,800 more in the coming weeks in time for the end of the grace period on November 3.

Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah Celebrates
"Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa"

08 September 2013 As a fitting tribute to Philippines' national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal and in line with the celebration of the Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa, the Philippine Consulate General, led by H.E. Uriel Norman R. Garibay, Consul General in Jeddah, and assisted by Madame Omega A. Garibay, Consul Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr., Consul Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan, Vice Consul Rodney Jonas L. Sumague and Vice Consul Jim G. Minglana, unveiled the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal that came from the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh. The unveiling ceremony was followed by a wreath laying by Consul General Garibay and his officers.

H.E. Congen General Uriel Norman R. Garibay (3rd from left) together with Consul Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan and Consul Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr. (1st & 2nd from left) and Vice Consul Jim G. Minglana and Mdme. Omega A. Garibay (1st & 2nd from right)during the unveiling of the bust of national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal on 23 August 2013 at the Philippine Consulate General

Staff of the Consulate, including attached agencies and some representatives from Filipino community organizations in Jeddah, numbering around sixty (60), witnessed the solemn ceremony, which was held at the lobby of the third floor of the Consulate.

In his message, Consul General Garibay mentioned that the celebration is important to increase Filipinos' civic and language awareness. He underscored one of the most quoted of Rizal's writings, "Ang hindi magmahal sa sariling wika ay masahol pa sa malansang isda". The Consul General encouraged everyone to use Philippine language not merely as a communication tool but as an expression of one's identity, of one's individual and social consciousness. Further, the Consul General shared with the attendees the message of President Benigno S. Aquino III for the celebration of the Buwan ng Wika with this year's theme "Wika Natin ang Daang Matuwid".

The ceremony was enlivened by a soulful rendition of two (2) Filipino love songs by talents of The Filipino Stars in Jeddah (TFSJ) and a general photo session.

(Left : Consul General Garibay, PCG officers and their spouses; Right: The Consul General with PCG Jeddah officers and staff)

After the short program, everyone proceeded to the Consulate's Community Hall for the ceremonial opening of the photo exhibit by Spectrum – The Filipino Photographer's Realm. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Consul General Garibay was joined by Mr. Alex Domingo, President of Spectrum. Around eighty (80) persons, composed of officers and staff of the Consulate, members of Spectrum and some Filipino community leaders in Jeddah witnessed the event. In a brief talk, the Consul General lauded the group for holding a photo exhibit which was dubbed as "Obra – Eksibisyon ng mga Larawan", and for supporting the Consulate in its celebration of the Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa. He also highlighted the importance of photographs in powerfully conveying messages of social, political and economic relevance. While the viewing of the photos was ongoing, everyone enjoyed picture-taking and listening to the Filipino songs rendered by TFSJ. After the short program, everyone partook in a simple Filipino snack composed of hot pandesal, pancit lomi, puto and Jollibee Chicken Joy. The results of the photo contest among the 43 entries that were displayed at the Community Hall for one (1) week was announced on 30 August 2013.
		Consul General Garibay during the ribbon-cutting ceremony of photo exhibit
To culminate this year's celebration of the "Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa", the Filipino community organizations in Jeddah, through the initiative of the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, organized a program at the Consulate on 30 August 2013. Consul General Garibay delivered an opening remarks wherein he emphasized the importance of language and its relation to education, culture, development of the nation and its people. He said that it is the duty and responsibility of every Filipino to promote and enrich our language as it represents the national identity of our country. He mentioned that it is also a part of a nation and a person's heritage. The Consul General further said that our language should only be used positively and correctly for the goodness of oneself, other people and our country. He said that language shall be used correctly as it could either contribute to world's progress or become an instrument for destruction. The program attended by approximately 100 persons was highlighted by presentations of the Toastmasters Clubs in Filipino, Balagtasan contest for students, special song, skit and dance numbers depicting our rich cultural heritage performed by OFW performers based in Jeddah. It also included a parade of Filipiniana gowns made of recycled materials like newspapers, plastic garbage bags, bottled caps, CDs, and other Philippine inspired materials designed and created by Filipino dressmaker based in Jeddah. The model who won in the gown competition was declared "Mutya ng Wika 2013".		Consul General Garibay delivered an opening remarks

The audience was requested to pin money to the gown they considered the best creation. The said activity garnered SR 1,470.00. According to the organizers, the full amount collected will be used for the benefit of typhoon victims in the Philippines, undocumented OFWs staying in the "Tent City", and the first baby to be born at the "Tent City" who now needs financial assistance. At the end of the program, Consul Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr., distributed certificates to the organizers and participants in appreciation for their support to the Consulate and contribution to the celebration of the Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa. He also awarded trophies to the winners for the Balagtasan contest and photo contest and delivered the closing remarks in which he thanked and congratulated the organizers of the program and all the performers for the success of the Buwan ng Wika 2013. The Consulate also conveyed its profound gratitude for Jollibee's participation and support in the said celebration.

Consul Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr. distributed certificates and trophies to the winners

On 31 August 2013, and still in line with the celebration of the Buwan ng Wika, Consul Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan was invited as Guest Speaker during the program of the Durat Al-Sharq International School in Jeddah. Consul Usudan delivered an inspirational message in which she emphasized that language is important to education. She said that by learning our language, we would know where we came from and who we are. She also mentioned that even though the Philippines have diverse languages, we still belong to one race and one nation. Consul Usudan further said that students abroad should be taught how to speak Tagalog or Filipino. She stressed that teachers and parents have a big role in inculcating to the minds of the young students and their children the importance of Filipino language.

Consul Usudan delivering her inspirational message

The one (1) day school activity highlighted presentations of folk song, skit and cultural dance numbers as well as Balagtasan contest and parade of Filipiniana costumes by students of Durat Al Sharq International School in Jeddah.

High school students from Durat Al Sharq International School in Jeddah performed cultural dance numbers
during its Buwan ng Wika celebration

-end-

2013 Migration Advocacy and Media (MAM) Awards

12 August 2013 The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah informs the Filipino community in the Western Region of the Kingdom that the Commission on Filipino Overseas (CFO) has announced that nomination for 2013 Migration Advocacy and Media (MAM) Awards is now officially open.

Conceived in 2011 by the CFO for the annual Celebration of the Month of Overseas Filipinos and International Migrants Day in the Philippines in December, MAM Awards recognize the positive and significant contributions of the media in information dissemination and advocacy of migration and development. Established in 2007 by virtue of Administrative Order 202, the IAC is chaired by the Philippine Migrants Rights Watch (PMRW) and co-chaired by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas.

Those eligible for the Awards are media works by government and private media outlets, institutions and practitioners in the fields of print, radio, movie and television, advertising and internet based in the Philippines and abroad, students and Filipnos overseas.
Copy of the primer containing the rules and guidelines on the 2013 Migration Advocacy and Media (MAM) Awards as well as nomination form may be downloaded at http://www.cfo.gov.ph.

In this regard, all Filipino communities are respectfully requested to disseminate the information on the Awards to all its family members, friends and colleagues, and if ,possible, post the link on the Awards on their respective websites, if they have any.

Deadline for submission of entries to the Awards is on or before 30 September 2013 to MAM Awards Committee, Commission on Filipinos Overseas, Citigold enter, 1345 Pres. Quirino Avenue cor. Osmeña Highway (South Superhighway) Manila, Philippines 1007 (Tel: +632.552.4761 to 67; Fax: +632.561.8291 and Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

JOB FAIR 2013: Off to a Good Start, 2nd Day on 26 July

23 Jul 2013 - The job fair conducted by the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah on 19 July, through the initiative of POLO/OWWA, dubbed as JOB FAIR 2013, was a success.

Initially organized for just one company only, Pinehill Arabia Co. Ltd. (maker of Indomie noodles), which signified its intention to hire numerous OFWs, the number of participating companies later increased to nine, as follows: ABA International; Abdulatif Jameel (Kamatsu); Arabian Entertainment; Hill Metals Est.; Marriot Hotel; Mesdaaq Furniture; NCT; and Woodroc.

The participating companies offered a merry mix of job vacancies for engineering, technicians, operators, service positions in hotel/restaurant, as well as household service workers.

JOB FAIR 2013, which was held at the premises of the Consulate, was formally opened by Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay. ConGen Garibay warmly welcomed the representatives of the participating companies and everyone who came to try their hand in job searching during the fair. He stressed that through POLO/OWWA, the Consulate continues to provide assistance to all OFWs who desire to have their work status rectified. ConGen Garibay stayed on after his speech to interact with prospective job applicants.

Majority of the attendees were females looking for jobs as hospital cleaners, hotel staff, and beauty salon and restaurant workers. On the other hand, the male applicants were in search for technical jobs. In total, more than 300 OFWs thronged the fair.

More companies have expressed their desire to participate in the 2nd day of the job fair slated on 26 July, Friday and in other job fairs that may be organized by the Consulate in the future. Intensified campaign/advertisement on the fair is now being done in order to disseminate information and reach out to as many job-hunting Filipinos as possible in Jeddah and the Western region.
.

Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay welcomed the participating companies and applicants

A whirl of activities at the tent venue

Employers busy reviewing papers and interviewing applicants who are hopeful that
that they will get the job.

Future employers and future workers meet and discuss job requirements

These panels of experts are ready to assess the qualifications of the applicants.

The Team who made the event a success. Seated from left: Welofs Vicky Demigoy, and Doc Adel (technical support and resource persons), Asst. Labor Attache Inza Cruz (Assistant Team Head of Job Fair 2013). Standing from the left: Adtong Saguia (logistics), Jeffrey Calibon (security), Ronald S. Reyes (coordinator, eMCee, documentation and registration) Pag-ibig Rep. Joeven. Not in picture: Jhong Sanchez (set-up and logistics)

Officials and other Staff who lend their support during the event. Vice Consul Jim Minglana (seated 4th from the left), Labor Attaché Alejandro A. Padaen, (3rd from right, standing) Labatt Padaen is the Over-all Head of the Job Fair 2013.

Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah Celebrates the
115th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence

24 June 2013 – The Philippine Consul General to Jeddah Uriel Norman R. Garibay led the celebration on 12 June 2013 to commemorate the 115th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence with a simple flag raising ceremony insidethe newly installed tent lent by the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry which is being used for the processing and releasing of travel documents of the undocumented OFWs in Jeddah, KSA.

The event which was attended by some 200 people consisting of members of the Filipino community, personnel of the Consulate and attached agencies, dependent spouses and "Jeddah campers", started with the singing of the Philippine national anthem led by the PCG Jeddah Chorale followed by the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag led by Mr. Arnel Navarra.

Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay led the PCG officers in the hoisting of the Philippine flag, while PCG Jeddah Chorale led in the singing of the Philippine national anthem

In his welcome address, Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay highlighted the theme of the 2013 Independence Day commemoration, "Ambagan tungo sa Malawakang Kaunlaran" or Pitching In Towards Inclusive Growth. He conveyed the resounding call of President Benigno S. Aquino III for all Filipinos to work as one collective and play each ones' part as custodians of peace and democracy. Consul General Garibay also expressed his sincere appreciation to all Filipino Community groups in Jeddah who had assisted the Consulate General at this time of crisis when their generosity to help the hundreds of undocumented Filipino nationals (adults, men, women and children) who are camping beside the Consulate building and sheltered at the 4th floor of the Consulate while waiting for their repatriation to the Philippines mattered most. He also thanked all his officers, members of his staff including the attached agencies, volunteer spouses and dependents and the augmentation team from DFA and PNP, for their unfailing dedication and hard work.

Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay while delivering his welcome address

After the song number rendered by students from the International Philippine School in Jeddah (IPSJ) and the reading of Independence Day messages, Consul General Garibay distributed plaques of appreciation to four (4) PCG personnel who have completed their tours of duty. This was followed by an invitation for everyone to join in the photo session. Special photo shots were taken with the Consul General with officers and representatives of various Filcom organizations and the leaders of the campers. After the short program, everyone partook in a "Brunch ng Bayan", during which traditional Filipino food, fruits, coffee and buko juice were served.

Officers of the Philippine Consulate General with Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay

Representatives from various Filipino Community organizations in Jeddah posed with PCG officials

Representatives of Jeddah campers participated in the ceremony and had a group picture with the PCG officers

Attendees during the Flag-raising ceremony held inside the tent, PCG Jeddah

The next day, 13 June 2013, and still in connection with the celebration of the 115th Anniversary of Philippine Independence, the Sarawat Supermarket in Jeddah, one of the oldest supermarkets in Saudi Arabia and now celebrating its 30th year in service, paid tribute to Filipinos' contributions to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by holding a Philippine Food Festival. Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay led in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. He was joined by Consul Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr. and Mdme. Agnes Ausan, Ms. Vivian Malli-Pungutan, Trade Representative and more than a hundred members of the Filipino Community in Jeddah.

Consul General Garibay took the opportunity to share the Independence Day message of President Aquino for the Filipino Community, after everyone in attendance was welcomed by Mr. Aubrey Viljoen, Vice President of Arabian Superstores Co. Ltd. (SARAWAT). The Philippine Badr International School rendered a couple of Tagalog songs to the delight and entertainment of the public. After the opening program, Consul General Garibay and the rest of the attendees, accompanied by SARAWAT executives, had the chance to view the exhibits of some importers of Filipino food products to Jeddah.

	Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay, with Consul Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr. and Sarawat Manager Mr. Viljoen, during the opening of the Philippine Food Festival held at Sarawat Supermarkets, Jeddah, KSA
	Consul General Garibay greeted OFWs while touring around the supermarket.

On 14 June 2013, the Sarawat Supermarkets also organized the 2013 Kalayaan Cup Bowling Tournament at the Jeddah Lanes, Mosadiah Center, Jeddah, and KSA. The Philippine Consulate bowling team participated as guest team on the tournament. It was composed of five (5) members captained by Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay. The event served as an opportunity for some participating Filipino bowlers in Jeddah to bond, exchange pleasantries, revive acquaintances and share fun with fellow Filipino bowlers and Consulate officials.

Meanwhile, on the occasion of the 115th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence and the launching of the San Miguel Food Products in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, A.R. Trading Est. (the exclusive distributor of San Miguel Food Products in KSA), hosted the "Purefoods Tender Juicy Hotdog Launching Dinner" on Friday, 21 June 2013 at Al Noor Ballroom, Le Meridien Hotel in Jeddah, KSA., in coordination with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center, Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah. Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay, Consuls General from Thailand, Malaysia, Pakistan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Korea and Japan with their spouses, officers and staff of the Consulate, Filipino Community leaders, representatives from Philippine School and business community, numbering around 160, graced the occasion. Mr. Mohammed Sayed, General Manager of A.R. Trading Est. based in Al Khobar, KSA, expressed his profuse thanks to the all for the success of the launching. END


Left Photo: Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay (2nd from right) with invited dignitaries from Asian Consul General's Club (ACGC) and Mr. Mohammed Sayed, GM of A.R. Trading Est. and Right Photo: Consul General Garibay (5th from right) with and Mr. Mohammed Sayed (4th from right) and other officers of the Philippine Consulate General

15,200 OFWs assisted by Consulate in 6 weeks

18 June 2013 - With two weeks to go before the 3 July deadline for illegal expatriates to either get repatriated or have their work status rectified in the Kingdom, the Consulate released yesterday its latest figures showing the vital services that it had extended to OFWs in the past six weeks. The services, which primarily included processing of passport renewals and replacements of lost passports, as well as, processing of travel documents, were extended to OFWs in an expedited manner to enable them to meet the deadline set by the Saudi Ministries of Labor and Interior.

During the period, 02 May to 16 June, the Consular Section of the Consulate processed 4,154 passport renewals and 6,137 lost passport replacements, or a total of 10,291 that already represents about 93.55% of the estimated 11,000 OFWs who would like to transfer to new sponsors/employers. 8,576 or 83% of the passports processed have already arrived from DFA Manila, and, thus far, 5,500 of these have been released to their owners on a daily (Saturday to Thursday) basis. With a new passport, an OFW can already go to the Jawazat (Passport Directorate) or the Labor Office, and perfect the correction of their work status after complying with the additional requirements of Saudi authorities.

Lady OFWs queuing for the release of their lost passport replacements at the
air-conditioned tent lent by the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce & Industry

On the other hand, the Assistance-to-Nationals Section was able to process the travel document (TD) applications of 4,910 OFWs, who represent 81.8% of the estimated 6,000 OFWs expected to seek repatriation. 3,602 TDs had been released to their owners, while 1,006 remain unclaimed. 302 are pending processing and 144 are newly-filed. With a TD, an OFW can already proceed to the Wafidin (immigration office) and undergo numbering, fingerprinting and clearing – which are the Saudi requirements for the issuance of exit visa by the Jawazat.

The Consulate's delivery of the aforesaid services was carried out by the officers and staff of the Consulate and its attached services, volunteer spouses, augmentation personnel from Riyadh PE and DFA Manila, who worked according to a special schedule that ran for 7 days-a-week, 10 hours per day. At one time, personnel shifts had to be organized and required to toil till 1 o'clock in the morning just to meet the increased demand in the processing of passports in the face of scorching summer heat during the day. END

SCHEDULE PARA SA FINGERPRINT SA JAWAZAT SA SABADO, 08 JUNE 2013

Ang mga sumusunod ay pinapayuhan na pumunta sa Jawazat sa Sabado, 08 June 2013:

May mga Iqama o Iqama Number na hindi pa nakapagpa-fingerprint o stamp sa Jawazat. Pumunta po kayo simula 8:00 ng umaga. Dalhin po ang original na Travel Document, kopya (photocopy) nito at extra na picture.

May mga Iqama o Iqama Number na pumunta noong nakarang Sabado, 01 June, sa Jawazat at pinabalik ng Jawazat dahil mali ang "reference number" o ibinigay ang Travel Document sa taga-Konsulado sa Jawazat para sa reference number pero hindi natawag. Pumunta po kayo simula 8:00 ng umaga. Ibibigay namin ang Travel Document ninyo doon sa Jawazat.

Walang Iqama o Iqama Number na pumunta noong nakarang Sabado, 01 June 2013, at nagbigay ng kanilang Travel Document sa taga-Konsulado sa Jawazat. Pumunta po kayo simula 10:00 ng umaga. Ibibigay namin ang Travel Document ninyo doon sa Jawazat.

Walang Iqama o Iqama Number na na hindi pa nakapagpa-fingerprint o stamp o hindi pa nakapunta sa Jawazat. Pumunta po kayo simula 3:00 ng hapon. Dalhin po ang original na Travel Document, kopya (photocopy) nito at extra na picture.

May mga taga-Konsulado na nakatalaga sa Jawazat sa araw na iyon para tulungan kayo.
Ang mga sumusunod ay hindi kinakailangang pumunta sa Jawazat sa Sabado, 08 June 2013:

Mga naproseso (kinuhanan ng picture at na-fingerprint) na noong na nakaraang Sabado, 01 June 2013, at kinuha ng Jawazat ang original ng Travel Document. Kagaya ng nabanggit sa huling pahayag ng Konsulado, ang mga Travel Documents (TDs) ay kasalukuyang nasa Konsulado. Kasalukuyang inihahanda ng Konsulado ang mga papeles (isinusulat sa wikang Arabic) para sa Exit Visa. Ang mga ito, kasama ang Travel Document, ay ibabalik sa Jawazat para matatatakan ng Exit visa. Ibibigay ito sa inyo pag natapos ang Exit Visa. Kayo ay tatawagan kapag ito ay tapos na o kaya ay tumawag sa hotline 055 521 9613 sa linggo, 08 June 2013.

Naproseso o nag-fingerprint na noong 18 May 2013, Sabado, o noong 23 May 2013, Huwebes. Mag-antabay lamang po kung ano ang sunod na dapat gawin. Ang travel document ninyo ay nasa Jawazat/Konsulado at pino-proseso para sa Exit Visa. Kayo ay tatawagan ng Konsulado kapag may kailangan pang gawin o kapag handa na ang Exit Visa. Maari ring makipag-ugnayan sa Konsulado tungkol dito sa telepono bilang 055 521 9613 o tingnan ang website ng Konsulado (www.pcgjeddah.org) o Facebook para sa karagdagang impormasyon.

Naproseso o nag-fingerprint noong 25 May 2013, Sabado. Ang mga original ng Travel Document ninyo ay nasa inyo at ang photocopy ang kinuha ngJawazat. Ibigay ang original sa ANS, 2nd Floor ng Konsulado simula sa Linggo, 09 June 2013 para ito ay maibalik sa Jawazat para sa Exit Visa.

Ang mga may anak, may sakit, buntis at matatanda ay pinapayuhan na huwag pumunta sa Sabado, 08 June, at sumabay sa schedule na ito. Dahil sa matinding init ng panahon, hindi ninyo kakayanin ang makipagsabayan sa maraming tao sa Jawazat. Ang mga anak ay kailangang dalhin para sa picture. Nakikipag-usap ang Konsulado sa Jawazat para sa hiwalay na araw para sa inyo. Makipag-ugnayan sa telepono bilang 055 521 9613 o tingnan sa website ng Konsulada (www.pcgjeddah.org) o Facebook para sa schedule.
Ipinapakiusap po na sundin ang schedule na ito at dumating sa takdang oras upang hindi magsabay-sabay sa Jawazat at maging maayos an ating pagpa-proseso sa Jawazat. Huwag pumunta sa oras na hindi pa schedule. Huwag ng pumunta sa Jawazat sa Sabado kung hindi kinakailangan at hindi naka-schedule.

DFA reassures Jeddah OFWs of assistance,
Sends in OUMWA Executive Director Catapang

With the Guidelines issued by the Saudi Ministries of Labor and Interior on 10 May for illegal expatriates to either get repatriated or have their work status rectified as backdrop, on 25 May, DFA Migrant Workers Affairs Office (OUMWA) Executive Director Rey Catapang planed into Jeddah to underscore DFA's unwavering commitment to assist OFWs in the Consulate's area of responsibility. While the systems and procedures promptly put into place by the Consulate has effectively and sufficiently met the surge in the numbers of OFWs who need to be served and have squarely addressed their increased concerns and demands since 10 May, Catapang's one-week visit will further ensure that anything more that needs to be done is accomplished.

ExDir Catapang, ConGen Garibay and Consul Ausan have lunch with the "campers".

On the very day of his arrival, ExDir Catapang commenced a day-to-day review and assessment of the operation plan and implementing systems and procedures put into place by the Consulate and executed through a task team constituted for the purpose. Specifically, Catapang wanted to ascertain if each and every OFW who desire to get repatriated has been or can be issued travel documents, in lieu of passports, in time to enable them to depart from the Kingdom by the deadline of 3 July 2013. He also wished to find out if each and every OFW who would like to correct their work status can be issued valid passports in time to enable them to transfer to new employers by the 3 July deadline.

After a week of daily meetings and ocular inspections of operations on the ground, ExDir Catapang has informed Consul General Uriel Norman Garibay of his observation that, "It appears that issuance of travel documents to the estimated 3,000 OFWs who request to be repatriated and the processing of valid passports to the estimated 10,000 OFWs who would like to correct their work status is well on-track to meet the 3 July deadline." Catapang further noted that, "On top of the untiring efforts of the Consulate, this is further assured by DFA Manila's sending in of additional data capturing equipment and personnel, as well as, the significant reduction in turn-around time in the printing and transmitting of passports from Manila to Jeddah."

ExDir Catapang and ConGen Garibay lending an ear to the plaints and concerns of the "campers".

On 29 May, ExDir Catapang, accompanied by ConGen Garibay and Vice Consul Ronald Jonas Sumague, paid a call on General Misha'al Ayedh Alharithi, Director, Immigration & Deportation Center (Wafidin) of Makkah Region. During the occasion, Catapang thanked the General for his assistance in approving the endorsement of 200 OFWs (including children and babies) into the Deportation Center before the issuance of the Guidelines by the Ministries of Labor and Interior. This has led to the repatriation of 180 of them. He further expressed his appreciation for his continuing efforts and assistance in ensuring that OFWs who desired to be repatriated pursuant to the Guidelines are issued exit visas soonest so that the Philippine Government can procure their tickets in time for the deadline. General Alharithi assured ExDir Catapang that the Saudi government through the Wafidin is doing its best to fine-tune its procedures so that in the coming Saturdays of June, the day reserved for processing Filipinos, more and more OFWs can be cleared and, eventually, issued exit visas. On Catapang's request, General Alharithi ordered his men to immediately take three (3) sick Filipino babies to the hospital for immediate medical care.

In the afternoon of 30 May, ExDir Catapang, ConGen Garibay and the officers of the Consulate had a dialogue with the leaders of the "campers", who continue to "maintain" their tents beside the Consulate, while awaiting repatriation. During the dialogue, Catapang affirmed to the "campers" that the commitment of the Philippine government, conveyed a month ago by OUMWA Undersecretary Yabes, to have them all repatriated in the soonest time possible, subsists. For his part, ConGen Garibay informed them about the activities that the Consulate is currently undertaking in coordination with the Saudi Jawazat in order to expedite their repatriation. Garibay further advised them that "your patience in waiting shall soon bear fruit."

At noontime of 31 May, ExDir Catapang, ConGen Garibay and Consul Leo Tito L. Ausan Jr., visited the "campers" to look into their condition and had lunch with them.

ExDir Catapang will depart for Riyadh in the afternoon of 2 June to also look into the plight of OFWs there. END

Consulate Issues Advisory on Ongoing
Repatriation of OFWs from Saudi

31 May 2013 - Continuing its drive to provide assistance and guidance to OFWs who fervently desire to be repatriated before the deadline of 3 July 2013 in compliance with the guidelines issued by the Saudi government, the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah issued today an advisory addressing issues and concerns of OFWs in Jeddah and the other major cities in the Western Region, who have already been issued travel documents (TDs).

In lieu of passports, the Consulate has, in the past couple of weeks, doubled-time to issue TDs to OFWs who have opted to go home to the Philippines instead of staying on and working in the Kingdom. With a TD, an OFW can already go to the Jawazat (Passport Directorate) of the Wafidin (Saudi Immigration & Deportation Office) for issuance of exit visa.

The Consulate estimates that 3,000 OFWs will seek repatriation before deadline. As of 30 May, the Consulate has already issued 2,531 TDs and expects to finish issuing the remaining TDs to about 469 more OFWs in the coming week.

In the advisory, which is issued only in Filipino in order to reach a much wider readership and further broaden understanding, the Consulate announces the Jawazat schedule for processing Filipinos; outlines the steps in obtaining an exit visa; advises what requirements and other things to bring; informs that the Consulate will be deploying sufficient personnel to assist OFWs at Jawazat; and warns against dealing with fixers.

For OFWs who have TDs already and had their fingerprints obtained by the Jawazat, the Advisory describes the process of obtaining exit visas and plane tickets from the Consulate. Those who need clarification are also informed with whom to communicate.

In closing, the Consulate informs that it is working very closely with Saudi authorities to ensure that the process of repatriation is expedited enough for OFWs to meet the 3 July 2013 deadline.

The full text of the advisory is as follows:

Mga Katanungan AT KASAGOTAN para sa Pagpapauwi ng OFWs

May Travel Document (TD) na ako, ano ang sunod ko na dapat gawin?

1. Alamin kung kailan ang schedule para sa "fingerprint" sa Jawazat (Saudi Immigration) para mabigyan ng Exit Visa. Ayon sa pakikipag-ugnayan ng Konsulado sa Jawazat, tuwing Sabado (Saturday) ang schedule para sa mga Filipino. Subalit hindi kaagad-agad makakapasok sa Jawazat lalo na kung wala ang kinatawan ng Konsulado. Kaya may mga nakatalaga kaming mga kinatawan sa Jawazat. Ipinakiusap rin ng Saudi Immigration sa Konsulado na siguraduhin na maging maayos ang pagdating ng mga Pilipino sa Jawazat. Dahil dito, inaayos ng Konsulado ang pagpunta sa Jawazat ayon sa mga dokumentong meron and OFW at ayon sa kasarian (lalaki at babae). May oras na ibibigay para dito upang hindi sabay sabay na magpunta sa Jawazat at para hindi rin mag-intay ng matagal dito. Upang malaman ang schedule, tawagan ang numero 050 569 1801 at 055 521 9613.

2. Ihanda ang mga sumusunod para dalhin sa Jawazat, kung alam na ang schedule:

Original Travel Document at kopya (photocopy) nito (kinakailangan/required);
kopya ng Iqama kung meron o number ng Iqama kung naaalala pa;
Kopya ng pahina (page) ng passport na may "visa stamping" at "entry number" kung meron; at
picture (1X1 o 2X2).

HINDI KINAKAILANGAN NA DALHIN ANG (MGA) ANAK SA JAWAZAT. SIGURADUHIN LAMANG NA ANG PANGALAN NG (MGA) ANAK AY KASAMA SA TRAVEL DOCUMENT.

MAGDALA RIN NG TUBIG, PAGKAIN AT PAYONG O SAKLOB/SOMBRERO

3. Pumunta sa Jawazat (malapit sa old airport) sa oras ng schedule. Maari nang dumiretso doon. May mga kinatawan (representatives) ang Konsulado na may ID na maghihintay sa Jawazat sa araw ng schedule upang siguraduhin na makakapasok at mapo-proseso ang OFW. Maari ring dumiretso sa Jawazat kung may Saudi national na tutulong sa pag-proseso ng Exit Visa.

WALANG SINISINGIL ANG KONSULADO O ANG JAWAZAT PARA SA PAGPAPA-PROSESO NG EXIT VISA. WALANG DAPAT BAYARAN PARA DITO.

Nakapag-fingerprint na ako, ano ang dapat kong gawin?

1. Makipag-ugnayan sa Konsulado sa mga numerong 050 569 1801 at 055 521 9613 upang malaman kung maari nang makauwi at makabili ng tiket (kung meron lamang pambili). Kahit nakapag-fingerprint na at nalagyan ng Jawazat stamp ang Travel Document, maaring hindi pa rin ito ang Exit Visa. Sa mga OFW na na-proseso sa Jeddah, tatanggalin pa ng Jawazat ang absconding report o rekord ng pagtakas sa kanilang computer system. Kung kaya pinapayuhan ang OFW na huwag agad-agad bumili ng tiket.

2. Sa mga OFW na na-proseso ng Jawazat sa mga ibang probinsya ng Western Region (Tabuk, Taif, Yanbu, Madinah, Makkah, Khamis, Abha, Najran, Jizan atbp.) maaring ang Exit Visa ay yung nasa hiwalay na papel na ibinibigay sa mga regular na pauwi. Kapag ganito ang nakuhang Exit Visa at may hawak pang valid passport, maari nang makauwi at bumili ng tiket. Kung hindi hawak ang valid passport, magtungo sa Konsulado upang kumuha ng Travel Document o makipag-ugnayan sa mga numerong nabanggit.

3. Sa mga may Exit Visa na at walang pambili ng tiket, maaring makipag-ugnayan sa Konsulado. Paalala lamang na ang Konsulado ay hindi agad-agad na makapagbibigay ng tiket o makapagbibigay ng tiket na naayon sa nais na araw o airline. Ang petsa at araw ng tiket ay depende sa petsa at araw na available sa isang airline.

Gaano katagal ang mga prosesong ito? Aabot pa ba kami sa deadline?

Ang schedule at bilis ng pagpo-proseso ay naayon sa Jawazat. Patuloy na nakikipag-ugnayan ang Konsulado sa Jawazat upang mapabilis ang pagproseso sa mga Pilipino at ang lahat ng nagnais umuwi ay maproseso at mabigyan ng Exit Visa bago ang deadline. Tinitiyak din ng Konsulado na ang lahat na nagnanais na umuwi ay mabigyan na ng Travel Document upang maging handa na kumuha ng exit visa sa Jawazat. Kaya kung nais nilang umuwi at wala pa po silang TD ay agaran nang tumungo sa Konsulado at mag-apply para dito.
Ipinakiusap sa lahat ng magpapa-proseso sa Jawazat na sumunod sa mga patakaran na ito at makipagtulungan sa Konsulado at kapwa OFW pagdating sa Jawazat upang masiguradong maayos ang linya/pila.

PAALALA LAMANG PO NA ANG SCHEDULE, MGA PROSESO AT REQUIREMENTS NA NABANGGIT AY MAARING MAGBAGO. KUNG KAYA'T PINAPAYUHAN ANG MGA NAGNANAIS NA MAKAKUHA NG EXIT VISA PARA MAKAUWI NA PATULOY NA MAKIPAG-UGNAYAN SA KONSULADO SA MGA NABANGGIT NA NUMERO. MAARI RING TINGNAN ANG FACEBOOK ACCOUNT AT WEBSITE NG KONSULADO PARA SA MGA UPDATES.

Mga KARAGDAGANG Katanungan AT KASAGOTAN
para sa Pagpapauwi ng OFW
(03 June 2013)

Natapos na akong mag-finger print noong Sabado, 01 June 2013, maari na ba akong umuwi? Kinuha ng Jawazat ang Travel Document ko, paano ko ito makukuha?

Hindi pa. Ang mga Travel Documents (TDs) ay kasalukuyang nasa Konsulado. Kasalukuyang inihahanda ng Konsulado ang mga papeles (isinusulat sa wikang Arabic) para sa Exit Visa. Kinakailangan rin ng karagdagang litrato para dito. Mangyari po lamang na ibigay sa Guard House ng Konsulado na nakasulat ng malinaw ang inyong pangalan sa likod. Ang mga ito, kasama ang Travel Document, ay ibabalik sa Jawazat para matatatakan ng Exit visa. Ibibigay ito sa inyo pag natapos ang Exit Visa. Kayo ay tatawagan kapag ito ay tapos na o kaya ay tumawag sa hotline 055 521 9613 sa linggo, 08 June 2013.

Kailan ko makukuha ang Travel Document at Exit Visa?

Inaayos na ng Konsulado ang mga kailangang papeles para matapos ang Exit visa sa lalong madaling panahon. Ang Jawazat ang magpo-proseso nito. Kung kaya, ang Jawazat ang siyang magiging basehan kung kailan maibabalik sa kanila ang kanilang Travel Document na may Exit Visa na.

Pumunta ako noong Sabado, 01 June 2013 pero hindi ako na-fingerprint. Ano ang dapat kong gawin?

Maghintay ng abiso ng Konsulado. Makipag-ugnayan sa telepono bilang 055 521 9613 o tingnan sa website ng Konsulada (www.pcgjeddah.org) o Facebook para sa mga karagdagang impormasyon at pahayag.

Bakit hindi pa ako na fingerprint?

Kung ikaw ay hindi pa na-fingerprint ikaw ay maaring:

walang Iqama number
mali ang Iqama number;
mali ang "reference number"
may anak;
may record na lumabas;
naiwan pa sa Jawazat ang travel document at hindi pa nalagyan ng reference number.

Wala akong Iqama o Iqama number mapo-proseso pa ba ako?

Ayon sa Jawazat, uunahin muna ang mga may Iqama dahil mas mabilis itong ma-proseso at may rekord na sa kanilang database. Hindi nangangahulugan na kung ang OFW ay walang Iqama number hindi na sya mapoproseso. Sya ay ipoproseso pa rin. Mauuna nga lamang ang may mga Iqama/Iqama number. Makipag-ugnayan sa telepono bilang 055 521 9613 o tingnan sa website ng Konsulada (www.pcgjeddah.org) o Facebook para sa araw kung kailan dapat mag-fingerprint.

Wala akong Iqama o Iqama number pero ibinigay ko sa taga-Konsulado o sa Jawazat ang Travel Document ko noong Sabado, 01 June 2013, paano ko ito makukuha?

Ibinalik ng Jawazat ang mga Travel Documents na walang Iqama o Iqama number sa Konsulado. Ito ay kasalukuyang ginagawan ng listahan. Gagawan rin ito ng endorsement para ma-proseso sa Jawazat. Kung kaya ipinapayo na huwag na muna itong kunin. Makipag-ugnayan sa telepono bilang 055 521 9613 o tingnan sa website ng Konsulado (www.pcgjeddah.org) o Facebook kung ano ang sunod na dapat gawin at kung kailan kailangang pumunta sa Jawazat para mag-fingerprint.

Nabigyan na ako ng reference number noong Sabado at luminya na para sa fingerprint. Pero hindi ako na-fingerprint dahil mali daw ang reference number ko. Ibinigay ko ulit ito sa Jawazat o taga-Konsulado para mabigyan ng bagong reference number pero hindi pa naibalik sa akin. Ano ang dapat kong gawin?

Pumunta sa Assistance to Nationals Section (ANS) sa 2nd Floor ng Consulate para sa karagdagang impormasyon.

May (mga) anak ako, kailangan ko pa ba siyang/silang isama sa Jawazat? Pumunta ako noong Sabado, 01 June 2013, sa Jawazat ngunit hindi ako na-proseso dahil may anak ako.

Ayon sa huling abiso ng Jawazat, kailangang dalhin ang anak (na kasama sa Travel Document) para makunan ng litrato. Makikiusap ang Konsulado sa Jawazat na magkaroon ng hiwalay na oras o araw para sa pag-poproseso ng may anak. Lilinawin rin kung hiwalay pa ang mga may anak na may Iqama at may anak na walang Iqama. Makipag-ugnayan sa telepono bilang 055 521 9613 o tingnan sa website ng Konsulado (www.pcgjeddah.org) o Facebook kung ano ang sunod na dapat gawin at kung kailan kailangang pumunta sa Jawazat kasama ang anak para mag-fingerprint at magpalitrato.

Naproseso na ako o nag-fingerprint na ako noong 18 May 2013, Sabado, o noong 23 May 2013, Huwebes, at hindi pinabalik noong nakaraang Sabado, 01 June 2013. Ano ang dapat kong gawin?

Mag-antabay lamang po kung ano ang sunod na dapat gawin. Ang travel document ninyo ay nasa Jawazat/Konsulado at pino-proseso para sa Exit Visa. Kayo ay tatawagan ng Konsulado kapag may kailangan pang gawin o kapag handa na ang Exit Visa. Maari ring makipag-ugnayan sa Konsulado tungkol dito sa telepono bilang 055 521 9613 o tingnan ang website ng Konsulado (www.pcgjeddah.org) o Facebook para sa karagdagang impormasyon.

Naproseso na ako o nag-fingerprint na ako noong 18 May 2013, Sabado, o noong 23 May 2013, Huwebes, at bumalik noong nakaraang Sabado, 01 June 2013, sakay ng bus pero hindi ako ulit nakapag-fingerprint. Ano ang dapat kong gawin?

Ipa-alam sa Konsulado (sa ANS, 2nd Floor) ang inyong pangalan at telepono. Nililinaw pa ng Konsulado sa Jawazat ang mga prosesong dapat ninyong pag-daanan. Kayo ay tatawagan ng Konsulado kapag may kailangan pang gawin sa lalong madaling panahon.

Naproseso na ako o nag-fingerprint na ako noong 25 May 2013, Sabado, at hindi pinabalik noong nakaraang Sabado, 01 June 2013. Ano ang dapat kong gawin?

Mag-antabay lamang po kung ano ang sunod na dapat gawin. Kayo ay tatawagan ng Konsulado kapag may kailangan pang gawin o kapag handa na ang Exit Visa. Maari ring makipag-ugnayan sa Konsulado tungkol dito sa telepono bilang 055 521 9613 o tingnan ang website ng Konsulado (www.pcgjeddah.org) o Facebook para sa karagdagang impormasyon.

Mag-e-expire na ang travel document ko, ano ang dapat kong gawin?
Pumunta sa ANS, 2nd Floor para ma-extend ang validity ng Travel Document.

Consulate Issues Advisory on Companies & Individuals
in Search of Workers among OFW Illegals

24 May 2013 - In the past week, with the release by the Saudi Ministries of Labor and Interior of guidelines on how illegal expatriates in the Kingdom can possibly be either repatriated or rectified in their work status, there has been a significant number of representatives of companies and individuals who have flocked outside the Consulate and have sought meetings with Consulate officials. Their common purpose intent is to offer job opportunities to Filipino illegals and hire workers from their ranks.

In this regard, the Philippine Consulate General has issued the following advisory for the Filipino community in Jeddah and the Western Region:

We would like to inform and advise all Boss Kabayans who desire to have their work status rectified in accordance with the guidelines of the Saudi Ministries of Labor & Interior that, the Consulate is not endorsing and will never in any way endorse any company and/or individual in their search for workers from your ranks. Activities and efforts of these companies and/or individuals are done solely on their own initiative and volition.

While some of these companies and/or individuals have approached the Consulate for assistance in their search for Filipino workers, at best they were only advised to submit in writing their available job opportunities so that these can be posted for the information of Boss Kabayans, who may in turn contact them if they are interested. The Consulate has never ever committed to any of these companies and/or individuals that it will favorably endorse or recommend their search for Filipino workers.

Any claim or statement of these companies and/or individuals that the Consulate General or any of its officers has endorsed, approved or has anything to do with their search for Filipino workers at this time is, therefore, unauthorized and a gross misrepresentation.

Please report any company and/or individual committing these acts/activities to the Consulate by calling CP No. 0555219379 or email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., so that appropriate action can immediately be taken to check on their nefarious activities that take advantage of our hapless Kabayans.

Shelter residents given medical attention

07 May – A Filipino lady doctor's yearning to be of assistance to her countrymen in Saudi Arabia came to a realization yesterday, when she was invited by the Consulate to come and provide much needed medical attention to the "campers" who have accepted the invitation to stay at the temporary shelter provided by the Consulate.

Dr. Grace Gonzalez of New Jeddah National Hospital, who wasted no time in coming after receiving ConGen Garibay's invitation to do so, in the spirit of volunteerism, conducted free medical consultations and check-ups on 58 mothers and their children for almost the entire day. She then prescribed the necessary medicine to those who were diagnosed to require it.

Dr. Gonzalez was ably assisted by Filipino nurses who were present and willing to help out.

At day's end, Dr. Gonzalez thanked ConGen Garibay for the opportunity to be of help to Filipinos in need.

Dr. Gonzalez scribbles her prescription for a patient.

The patient's queue patiently.

A toddler boldly submits to Dr. Gonzales' medical check-up

Social Welfare Attaché Nilda Oliva takes the opportunity to get to know the residents of the shelter better as they await their turn to consult with Dr. Gonzales

Consulate's temporary shelter for campers now fully-occupied

07 May, Jeddah – As of 06 May, a total of 293 Filipinos of illegal status in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have come to the temporary shelter at the fourth floor of the Consulate. The number comprises 166 women (12 of whom are pregnant) and 127 children and fills, to capacity, the shelter. Many come from the ranks of the "campers" who have pitched tents on a vacant lot adjacent to the Consulate building.

The shelter's canopied open area

The Consulate's temporary shelter has been made available to the women and children among the "campers" since 24 April yet. Regrettably, despite the repeated invitations of the Consulate, there had been few takers. However, recently, because of the worsening heat during the day and deteriorating health and sanitation conditions at the "tent camp", the number of residents at the temporary shelter has gradually increased as days went by.

When the initial group of 62 Filipino "illegals" (20 men; 20 women; and 22 children – inadvertently reported earlier as 63) was admitted into the Deportation Center (tarheel) on 04 May, the number spiked, sparked by the mistaken belief that those who are staying at the temporary shelter are given priority in repatriation.

During his most recent visit to the shelter, Consul General Garibay thanked the 166 women for accepting the Consulate's invitation to avail of its comfort, which is comparatively, better than the state of affairs at the "tent camp". However, while ConGen Garibay warmly welcomed everyone, he requested those among them who have places to stay anyway (other than the "tent camp") to seriously consider giving up their space. This will enable the "Consulate to accommodate those who don't have any place to stay at, in your stead", explained ConGen Garibay. "It is not correct that those in the temporary shelter are given priority over those outside in the repatriation process", he assured. Twenty one among the women believed ConGen Garibay's assurance and, along with their children, went back to their respective apartments in the city.

The shelter's air-conditioned apartment has five rooms.

At the temporary shelter, which consists of an air-conditioned apartment and a canopied open area is now being looked after by Welfare Officer Ms. Marivic Demingoy, OWWA; Social Welfare Attaché Ms. Nilda Oliva, DSWD (who freshly arrived from Riyadh PE); and Ms. Hazel Manahan-Mendoza of the Consulate's Assistance-to-Nationals Section. Food, milk, water, medicine, toiletries and other basic necessities are provided to the residents. On the other hand, those who came, but returned to their respective apartments after being clarified regarding their repatriation, were given assurance by Social Welfare Attaché Oliva that the DSWD will continue to provide milk and medicine of their children. For additional comfort, three (3) portable toilets were installed at the shelter yesterday.

Despite this development, the Consulate continues its search for a much bigger temporary shelter, which can possibly accommodate everyone in the "tent camp", in order to better protect them from the elements while eagerly awaiting their repatriation to the Philippines.

At the hallway leading to the canopied open area
and play-area of children

37 Filipino illegals in Jeddah set to fly home May 9

07 May, Jeddah – They numbered 63 – 20 men, 20 women and 23 children. It was only last 4 May, Sunday that they were taken to and admitted into the Jeddah Deportation Center (tarheel). While they were very much aware that it was their first concrete step in getting repatriated to the Philippines, they were, however, oblivious as to how long will they be staying in the facility. They knew that they had to go through a stringent clearing process before they can be granted exit from the Kingdom. They were uncertain as to whether or not their respective sponsors/employers of record will readily issue them "no objection certificates". They were braced for the worst. Nevertheless, they continued praying and hoping for the best – the process will not take long.

Members of the group fill up applications for travel document issuance.

For thirty-seven (37) of them – 9 men, 12 women and 16 children, the process did not take long. Their prayers were heard. Yesterday, 6 May, at midday, the Consulate gathered information that they have successfully hurdled the clearing process. Immediately, Consul General Uriel Norman Garibay ordered that their plane tickets (as earlier booked) be procured. Now, they're set to go home in two days time (09 May).

The entire group profusely thanked the Philippine government, President Pinoy, the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh and the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah for their assistance in having them repatriated much, much earlier that what they expected.

ConGen Garibay and Consulate personnel ensure the orderly boarding
of the minibuses that were to take them to the tarheel.

The Philippine Consulate in Jeddah shall continue to make representations with Saudi immigration authorities to expedite the repatriation of the remaining 26 in their original group. End.

Consulate repatriates 5 "camping" Umrah overstayers

06 May, Jeddah – Continuing its determined efforts to send home all Filipinos with illegal status in its area of responsibility, the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah succeeded in repatriating today another group of Filipino "illegals" consisting of five (5) Filipino umrah pilgrims who have overstayed their visas in the Kingdom.
The five who were originally with the 700 Filipino "illegals" who have pitched camp, and continue to camp, beside the Consulate are: Mohammad Guro Mangacop, 30 yrs old from Cagayan de Oro City; Solaiman Lindungan Salik, 35 yrs old from Talitay, Maguindanao; Ms. Saniya P. Duray, 46 yrs old from Basilan; Akrima Baid Jumdani, 28 yrs old from Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte; and Ms. Hajiria Esteban Abison, 32 yrs old from Ipil, Zamboanga del Sur. They departed from Jeddah at 05H15 this morning and are scheduled to arrive in Manila at 18H15, also today.

ConGen Garibay thanks the umrah overstayers for reposing trust & confidence in the
Consulate's capability to have them repatriated. TIW Yahyah D. Yahya looks in agreement.

The repatriation of the umrah overstayers came after the Consulate facilitated their compliance with the requirements of the Saudi immigration authorities. The repatriation requirements of umrah or haj visa overstayers are more easily met compared with those of runaways (huroobs). The latter have to secure "no objection certificates" from their sponsors/employers and pay government penalties and fines, which can reach huge amounts depending on the number of years they have absconded. These are not required of the former.

ConGen Garibay bids farewell to the five (5) umrah visa overstayers.

20 men, 20 women & 23 children, home from Jeddah soon

04 May, Jeddah – Untiring efforts by the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah finally bore fruit today, when Saudi Passport Directorate (Jawazat)personnel started fetching the women with children, the old and the sickly among those who took temporarily shelter at the 4th floor of and from among the campers beside the Consulate.

Loaded in two (2) minibuses and taken to the Deportation Center (tarheel) in Jeddah at 5:30 in the afternoon were 20 men, 20 women and 23 children. The youngest in the group is Baby Jasmin, mothered by an OFW camper, Shaima, two weeks ago. The eldest is a 68 year old male from Pampanga, Dominador De Guzman, who had ran away from his sponsor since 2004. The group forms part of the names submitted by the Consulate to and approved by the Jawazat to be the first to be fetched and admitted by them at the tarheel.

Consul General Garibay bidding "Godspeed" to 68-year old
Dominador De Guzman, the oldest in the group.

At the tarheel, the group will be readily processed for deportation in accordance with Saudi laws and regulations. Once cleared of civil, criminal and other liabilities in the Kingdom, they will be deported to the Philippines. The Consulate is ready to provide everyone in the group with travel documents and foot their plane fares, once information is received from the Jawazat that they have hurdled the clearing process.

ConGen Garibay assists a woman who had sought shelter at
the Consulate board the minibus.

Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay thanked the Jawazat authorities in Jeddah for their kind gesture of fetching and admitting into the tarheel the Filipinos with illegal status starting today. ConGen Garibay expressed hope that this would continue in the coming days until everyone shall have been repatriated to the Philippines.

The men in the group flash a victory sign and proudly wear
smiles, certain that they will soon be home.

2 children in tent camp given Consulate assistance

29 April, Jeddah – In order to be able to respond to requests for assistance for medical cases that are made either after office hours or during weekends and holidays, the Consulate maintains an on-call Emergency Reaction Team (ERT). Thus, at 5 o'clock in the afternoon yesterday when a call was received that medical assistance was needed by 2 children at the tent camp, the ERT immediately responded. It called for an ambulance and had the children taken to the Al-Aziziya Maternity and Children Hospital.

Farisha, 1 year and 11-month old, was vomiting, while Ashly, 1 year and a half old had fever and was also vomiting. Both were given medication at the hospital and were relieved of their sickness. After a brief period of observation, they were allowed to go home by their attending physician. They were taken back by their respective mothers, Aisa Inog and Fatima Manusia, to the tent camp.

Because of what had happened to Farisha and Ashly, Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay reiterated his appeal to the women and children at the tent camp to heed the Consulate's invitation to take temporarily shelter at the more comfortable 4th floor of the Consulate. "Summer is fast approaching and the heat is becoming more intolerable. I, therefore, take this opportunity to again invite all the women and children at the tent camp to come up and occupy the temporary shelter which we had prepared for them at the 4th floor of the Consulate", Garibay said.

Jeddah Consulate assists camper who gives birth

29 April 2013 - Nineteen year old OFW, Ma. Shaima Duma, joined the campers beside the Consulate a week or so ago hoping to be repatriated as soon as possible as she was pregnant. Repatriation though is a lengthy process that needs to meet the requirements of the Saudi government like the no objection certificate of the sponsor/employer and the payment of government penalties and fines.

While awaiting repatriation, on 26 April, Shaima felt that she was to give birth anytime. Informed about Shaima's condition, the Consulate, facilitated, through the Diplomatic Police, the calling of an ambulance, which brought her to the Aziziyah Maternity Hospital. She was admitted on the basis of a Consulate referral slip but wasn't given full medical attention at the hospital for inadequacy of facilities and lack of residence card (iqama). She had to be transferred to the Al Naseem Jeddah Polyclinic in the morning of Saturday, 27 April, where she delivered a baby girl. She was visited by a lady staff of the Consulate, after she delivered and was found in good state.

At the end of the day, Shaima and her baby whom she named Jasmin were ready for discharge. It wasn't to happen, however, unless she pays her bill of 2,200 Saudi riyals. Requested for assistance, Consul General Uriel Norman Garibay sent its Emergency Reaction Team to the Al Naseem Polyclinic. With the Team's commitment that the Consulate will foot Shaima's bill as soon as paperwork for funding is finished, Shaima was finally and Jasmin were finally discharged. They opted not return to the tent camp anymore. They are now temporarily sheltered at the 4th floor of the Consulate, with other stranded Filipino women and children.

When DFA Migrant Workers Affairs Usec Yabes, who is Jeddah, came to know of Shaima's plight, he immediately recommended the approval of release of funds to pay Shaima's hospital bill. Shaima will be repatriated to the Philippines, unbothered by the thought that she left behind an unpaid hospital bill.

DFA affirms commitment to bring campers home, sends Migrant Workers Affairs Usec Yabes to Jeddah

29 April 2013 - To underline its resolve to provide assistance to all Filipinos with illegal status demanding immediate repatriation (especially those "campers" beside the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah), the DFA dispatched to Saudi Arabia, Migrant Workers Affairs Office (OUMWA) Undersecretary Jesus Yabes on 25 to 28 April.

In the afternoon of 25 April, accompanied by Assistant Secretary Petronila Garcia of the Office of Middle East and African Affairs (OMEAA), Usec Yabes met with Philippine Ambassador to KSA, Ezzedin Tago, Consul General Uriel Norman Garibay and the officers and staff of the Philippine Consulate for a comprehensive briefing on issues and concerns of Filipinos with illegal status in the Kingdom. After the meeting, Usec Yabes conducted an inspection of two facilities which could possibly serve as temporary shelters for the campers, especially the women and children – the gymnasium of the International Philippine School in Jeddah (IPSJ) and the worker's accommodation of the Mohamed Adel Adnan Haloul Establishment. He instructed ConGen Garibay to secure permission as soon as possible from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the use of the IPSJ Gym. The gym is large enough to accommodate all the campers, whose number range from 700 to 1,000, depending on whether its day or night time.

The next day, Usec Yabes met with 60 leaders of the various Filipino community organizations in Jeddah. He thanked them for their continuing support to the DFA, the Embassy and the Consulate and their unceasing generosity in providing assistance to the "campers". Yabes assured the Filcom leaders, including the leaders of the "campers" who joined the meeting, that the Philippine Government is committed to bring home all illegal Filipinos in Saudi Arabia. "Some may be brought home ahead, others later. But, for sure, they will all be brought home", Yabes emphasized. He urged them to help in convincing the women and children in the tent camp to avail of the Consulate's standing offer to temporarily shelter them at the 4th floor of the Consulate building.

On 27 April, Usec Yabes visited the tent camp and took a first-hand look at the situation of the "campers". He assured them that "everyone will be brought back to the Philippines" and "NO ONE WILL BE LEFT BEHIND". He immediately ordered that they be provided as often as daily, if needed, with food, milk, water, mattresses, diapers, toiletries and other basic necessities. He also reiterated his earlier appeal for the "campers" to seriously consider the Consulate's continuing offer to temporarily shelter them either at the Consulate or at a facility which would be made available soon.

Usec Yabes departed in the afternoon of 28 April leaving behind categorical instructions for the Embassy and the Consulate to continue their untiring and unceasing assistance to all Filipinos with illegal status in Saudi Arabia.

OVERSEAS VOTING IN JEDDAH, TWO WEEKS MORE TO GO

30 April 2013 - While the voter turn-out has been very encouraging for the first two (2) weeks of voting, the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah would like to appeal to all registered overseas Filipino voters in Jeddah and the Western Region who have not yet cast their votes to come to the Consulate and do so on or before 13 May.
Schedule for the remaining two weeks is as follows:

01 to 10 May             - 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (10 hrs. per day)
11 & 12 May               - 9:00 am to 8:00 pm (11 hrs. per day)
13 May 2013               - 8:00 am to 2:00 pm

Voters can vote for not more than twelve senators from a list of 33 and only one party list group from a list of 136 by shading in full the oval corresponding to the candidates or party lists' number.
The Consulate wishes to exhort everyone to vote during weekdays and as early as possible in order to avoid the surge of voters and the inconvenience of having to queue during weekends and in the last few days of the election period.
To save valuable time, the Consulate advises voters to check their names beforehand in the Certified List of Overseas Absentee Voters (CLOAV). The said list is posted at the COMELEC website: www.comelec.gov.ph/oav/?r=tpl/oav_lists or at the Consulate website:www.pcgjeddah.org/pdf/jeddahclov.pdf.

News

23/01/2013: Statement by Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert del Rosario on the UNCLOS Arbitral Proceedings against China to Achieve a Peaceful and Durable Solution to the Dispute in the WPS

22 January 2013

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen of the print and broadcast media.

I have the honor to introduce to you the Honorable Solicitor General of the Philippines Francis H. Jardeleza who stands with me here today.

This afternoon, the Philippines has taken the step of bringing China before an Arbitral Tribunal under Article 287 and Annex VII of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in order to achieve a peaceful and durable solution to the dispute over the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

At around one o'clock this afternoon, the Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Ma Keqing was summoned to the Department of Foreign Affairs and was handed a Note Verbale by Assistant Secretary Teresa Lazaro. The Note Verbale contains the Notification and Statement of Claim that challenges before the Arbitral Tribunal the validity of China's nine-dash line claim to almost the entire South China Sea (SCS) including the WPS and to desist from unlawful activities that violate the sovereign rights and jurisdiction of the Philippines under the 1982 UNCLOS.

I furnish you with a copy of the Note Verbale with the Notification and Statement of Claim.

This Notification initiates the arbitral proceedings under Article 287 and Annex VII of UNCLOS.

The initiation of Arbitral Proceedings against China on the nine-dash line is an operationalization of President Aquino's policy for a peaceful and rules-based resolution of disputes in the WPS in accordance with international law specifically UNCLOS.

The Philippines has exhausted almost all political and diplomatic avenues for a peaceful negotiated settlement of its maritime dispute with China. On numerous occasions, dating back to 1995, the Philippines has been exchanging views with China to peacefully settle these disputes. To this day, a solution is still elusive. We hope that the Arbitral Proceedings shall bring this dispute to a durable solution.

Our legal position before this UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal is explained in this carefully crafted Notification and Statement of Claim. I invite the media to study closely the legal document we have given you so as to accurately report on the Philippine legal position.

Allow me, however, to highlight some salient points in the Notification and Statement of Claim:

The Philippines asserts that China's so-called nine-dash line claim that encompasses virtually the entire South China Sea/West Philippine Sea is contrary to UNCLOS and thus unlawful.
Within the maritime area encompassed by the 9-dash line, China has also laid claim to, occupied and built structures on certain submerged banks, reefs and low tide elevations that do not qualify as islands under UNCLOS, but are parts of the Philippine continental shelf, or the international seabed. In addition, China has occupied certain small, uninhabitable coral projections that are barely above water at high tide, and which are "rocks" under Article 121 (3) of UNCLOS.
China has interfered with the lawful exercise by the Philippines of its rights within its legitimate maritime zones, as well as to the aforementioned features and their surrounding waters.
The Philippines is conscious of China's Declaration of August 25, 2006 under Article 298 of UNCLOS (regarding optional exceptions to the compulsory proceedings), and has avoided raising subjects or making claims that China has, by virtue of that Declaration, excluded from arbitral jurisdiction.

In this context, the Philippines is requesting the Arbitral Tribunal to issue an Award that, among others:

Declares that China's rights in regard to maritime areas in the South China Sea, like the rights of the Philippines, are those that are established by UNCLOS, and consist of its rights to a Territorial Sea and Contiguous Zone under Part II of UNCLOS, to an EEZ under Part V, and to a Continental Shelf under Part VI;
Declares that China's maritime claims in the SCS based on its so-called nine-dash line are contrary to UNCLOS and invalid;
Requires China to bring its domestic legislation into conformity with its obligations under UNCLOS; and
Requires that China desist from activities that violate the rights of the Philippines in its maritime domain in the West Philippine Sea.

The Philippines asserts that the Arbitral Tribunal has jurisdiction to hear and make an award based on its Notification and Statement of Claim because the dispute is about the interpretation and application by States Parties of their obligations under the UNCLOS. Article 287 (1) of UNCLOS provides that "settlement of disputes concerning the interpretation and application of this Convention" may be referred by the Parties for resolution under Part XV of UNCLOS.

The Philippines further asserts that the claim is well founded in fact and law based on the Notification and Statement of Claims and supplementary documents that will be submitted in the course of the arbitral proceedings.

Solicitor General Francis H. Jardeleza is the agent or legal representative for the Philippines in this Arbitral Proceedings. The lead counsel of the Philippines is Mr. Paul Reichler of Foley and Hoag LLP.

The Philippines has always asserted that international law including UNCLOS will be the great equalizer in resolving this dispute over the West Philippine Sea.

While we proceed with the legal track, the Philippines continuous to exert all efforts to move forward and enhance its relations with China on the basis of mutual respect.

We strongly believe that this action is the appropriate response to put our diplomatic relations in its proper context.

We hope that China would join us in this aspiration.

This ends our press briefing, ladies and gentlemen.

We will give you a set of questions with corresponding responses to complete your information.

We thank you as we understand you have a deadline to meet. END

Department of Foreign Affairs

Q & A on the UNCLOS Arbitral Proceedings against China to Achieve a Peaceful and Durable Solution to the Dispute in the West Philippine Sea

23 January 2013

1. Why are we bringing China to an arbitral tribunal?

China's 9-dash line claim encompasses practically the entire West Philippine Sea (WPS). We must challenge the unlawful claim of China under their 9-dash line in order to protect our national territory and maritime domain.

2. Why do we have to do this now?

Having exhausted all possible initiatives, we feel the time to act is now. If we do not act now, we will be in default.

3. What is the basis of our legal action?

The legal action is pursuant to the President's constitutional mandate to pursue the national interest and defend the Philippine territory and maritime domain. It also pursues the policy of a rules-based approach based on international law, especially UNCLOS, in resolving the disputes in the WPS.

4. What do we expect from this arbitral tribunal?

We hope that the arbitral tribunal will issue an award in accordance with international law that will direct China to respect our sovereign rights and jurisdiction over our EEZ, continental shelf, contiguous zone, and territorial sea over the West Philippine Sea, and to desist from undertaking unlawful acts that violate our rights.

5. What is the process of arbitration?

Under Annex VII of UNCLOS, the arbitration process begins by notifying the other party to the dispute and giving a statement of facts on which the notification is based.

In accordance with this process, the Philippines through the DFA handed the Note Verbale to the Chinese Ambassador in Manila in the afternoon of 22 January 2013 notifying China that the Philippines is bringing the dispute in the WPS before an arbitral tribunal under Annex VII of UNCLOS.

The next step is to form the 5-member arbitration panel. When the panel is formed, the parties will present their documents to further explain their case.

6. Is the legal track the only option?

We have adopted three tracks in terms of the political, diplomatic and legal approaches. At this stage, the legal track presents the most durable option to defend the national interest and territory on the basis of international law.

7. Who filed the case and where?

The Philippines filed the arbitration case against China. The parties will have to agree on the place where the arbitral tribunal will hold the hearing of the case.

Under UNCLOS, Parties to a dispute have the choice on where to file the case, either in the International Court of Justice, ITLOS, arbitral tribunal and special arbitral tribunal. The Philippines chose to bring this case before the arbitral tribunal because it believes it is the appropriate body to hear the complaint of the Philippines against China.

8. How long will the arbitration process last?

Based on the cases so far handled by international tribunals on maritime disputes, the case would take 3-4 years.

9. Will we win our case?

We believe we have a very good case under international law. In any legal action, however, there are many different factors to consider. What is more important is that we are able to present our case against China and defend our national interest and maritime domain before an independent international tribunal. We expect international law to be the great equalizer.

10. Who are the members of the PH legal team?

Solicitor General Francis H. Jardeleza is the agent or the legal representative of the Philippines in this arbitration case. Mr. Paul Reichler of the Washington law firm Foley and Hoag is the lead counsel.

11. Why are the other countries not filing a case against China?

The Philippines is taking action based on its national interest and not on the actions or non-action of other countries.

12. What if China refuses to participate in the arbitration?

The Philippines will pursue the procedures and remedies available under Annex VII of UNCLOS to achieve the award outlined in the Statement of Claim.

Annex VII of UNCLOS provides for compulsory proceedings with binding decision.

13. What's next for the Philippines?

The Philippines will now prepare for the formation of the 5-member arbitration panel and agree on the venue.

14. Do you have the support of the other branches of the government?

Yes, all the three branches of the Philippine Government support the President's decision to bring the dispute in the West Philippine Sea before the UNCLOS arbitral tribunal.

15. What will be the effects on Philippines-China economic relations?

As arbitration is friendly and peaceful, we hope that there will be no adverse effects on our trade with China. President Aquino and President Hu Jintao agreed that the bilateral agenda will be moved forward while contentious issues will be abstracted for separate treatment.

We are all for improving our economic relations with China but it should not be at the expense of surrendering our national sovereignty.

16. What will be the effects on tourism?

The Philippines and China have an incredible people-to-people engagement. We look forward to enhance it through an effective tourism program.

17. What will happen to our OFWs who may be affected by this action?

The Philippine Government will provide the appropriate safety net for the OFWs.

18. Did the US and Japan influence your decision to take this action?

No. The Philippines is taking this action independently.

19. What are the opinions of the different sectors in Philippine society?

While there are varied opinions on the dispute, nevertheless, all Filipinos should unite to support the President's constitutional mandate to protect Philippine territory and national interest.

20. Will this result into a military conflict?

China is a good friend. Arbitration is a peaceful and amicable process to settle a dispute between and among friends.

21. What will happen to PH-China relations?

We will continue to pursue an enhancement of our bilateral relations in all areas of cooperation.

22. Would this action affect ASEAN?

We are counting on ASEAN to support us in finding a peaceful and durable solution to the dispute. The Philippines must protect its own national interest in this regional forum as well as in other fora in order to enhance the respect of our international partners who support our cause.

23. Would discussions on the Code of Conduct (CoC) continue?

Yes, the Philippines will continue to work with ASEAN and China in crafting the Code of Conduct and implement the commitments of ASEAN Member States and China in the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC).

24. Why can we not do joint development with China?

Joint development, following the Chinese model, is a violation of the Philippine Constitution. Joint development should be in accordance with Philippine law.

25. How much will this cost the Filipino people?

One cannot put a price in the concerted effort of the Filipino people and government in defending our patrimony, territory, national interest and national honor.

26. Why should the Filipinos support this action?

If someone forces himself into your house and tries to unlawfully take away what belongs to you, should you not take action against the intruder? Our action is in defense of our national territory and maritime domain.

27. How can all Filipinos help in promoting a positive result of this legal initiative?

All Filipinos should stand behind the President to defend what is ours in accordance with the Philippine Constitution. We should all firmly demonstrate our patriotism. We should all stand united as one before the whole world to manifest the President's leadership on this issue.

###

Notification and Statement of Claim on West Philippine Sea

Press Release from the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila

Department of Foreign Affairs

Q & A on the UNCLOS Arbitral Proceedings against China to Achieve a Peaceful and Durable Solution to the Dispute in the West Philippine Sea

23 January 2013

1. Why are we bringing China to an arbitral tribunal?

2. Why do we have to do this now?

Having exhausted all possible initiatives, we feel the time to act is now. If we do not act now, we will be in default.

3. What is the basis of our legal action?

4. What do we expect from this arbitral tribunal?

5. What is the process of arbitration?

Under Annex VII of UNCLOS, the arbitration process begins by notifying the other party to the dispute and giving a statement of facts on which the notification is based.

The next step is to form the 5-member arbitration panel. When the panel is formed, the parties will present their documents to further explain their case.

6. Is the legal track the only option?

7. Who filed the case and where?

The Philippines filed the arbitration case against China. The parties will have to agree on the place where the arbitral tribunal will hold the hearing of the case.

8. How long will the arbitration process last?

Based on the cases so far handled by international tribunals on maritime disputes, the case would take 3-4 years.

9. Will we win our case?

10. Who are the members of the PH legal team?

11. Why are the other countries not filing a case against China?

The Philippines is taking action based on its national interest and not on the actions or non-action of other countries.

12. What if China refuses to participate in the arbitration?

The Philippines will pursue the procedures and remedies available under Annex VII of UNCLOS to achieve the award outlined in the Statement of Claim.

Annex VII of UNCLOS provides for compulsory proceedings with binding decision.

13. What's next for the Philippines?

The Philippines will now prepare for the formation of the 5-member arbitration panel and agree on the venue.

14. Do you have the support of the other branches of the government?

Yes, all the three branches of the Philippine Government support the President's decision to bring the dispute in the West Philippine Sea before the UNCLOS arbitral tribunal.

15. What will be the effects on Philippines-China economic relations?

We are all for improving our economic relations with China but it should not be at the expense of surrendering our national sovereignty.

16. What will be the effects on tourism?

The Philippines and China have an incredible people-to-people engagement. We look forward to enhance it through an effective tourism program.

17. What will happen to our OFWs who may be affected by this action?

The Philippine Government will provide the appropriate safety net for the OFWs.

18. Did the US and Japan influence your decision to take this action?

No. The Philippines is taking this action independently.

19. What are the opinions of the different sectors in Philippine society?

While there are varied opinions on the dispute, nevertheless, all Filipinos should unite to support the President's constitutional mandate to protect Philippine territory and national interest.

20. Will this result into a military conflict?

China is a good friend. Arbitration is a peaceful and amicable process to settle a dispute between and among friends.

21. What will happen to PH-China relations?

We will continue to pursue an enhancement of our bilateral relations in all areas of cooperation.

22. Would this action affect ASEAN?

23. Would discussions on the Code of Conduct (CoC) continue?

24. Why can we not do joint development with China?

Joint development, following the Chinese model, is a violation of the Philippine Constitution. Joint development should be in accordance with Philippine law.

25. How much will this cost the Filipino people?

One cannot put a price in the concerted effort of the Filipino people and government in defending our patrimony, territory, national interest and national honor.

26. Why should the Filipinos support this action?

27. How can all Filipinos help in promoting a positive result of this legal initiative?

###

Notification and Statement of Claim on West Philippine Sea

Press Release from the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL IN JEDDAH COMMEMORATES
100TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY OF RIZAL

05 January 2013 – Officers and staff of the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah commemorated 100th Death Anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal during a simple ceremony at the Consulate's Rooftop on the morning of 30 December 2012. Pursuant to Republic Act 229, the ceremony began with the lowering of the Philippine Flag to half mast in solemn commemoration of Dr. Rizal's ultimate sacrifice for the nation. This was followed by the reading of the statement of Secretary Edwin Lacierda on the commemoration of Rizal Day 2012 by Vice Consul Rodney Jonas L. Sumague. Vice Consul Jim G. Minglana, meanwhile, gave a brief account of the last moments of Rizal. Consul General Garibay then delivered brief remarks on Dr. Rizal, underscoring the latter's great contribution to the nation, his patriotism, life and works which led to our freedom. Consul General Garibay noted that the date of the execution of Rizal was apparently timed during the holiday season to dampen the spirits of Filipinos at the time. The Spaniards were, however, mistaken as the execution of Rizal only served to further fuel the revolution. Consul General Garibay further noted that "…this shows the resilience of Filipinos, especially in times of difficulties, which should serve as an inspiration for OFWs and personnel of the Consulate."

The community singing of "Ako'y Isang Pinoy" led by the PCG Jeddah Chorale also added to the solemnity of the event. The event was capped by a simple "salo-salo" breakfast by the Consulate personnel.

The occasion also served as venue for bonding and get-together of the staff before saying goodbye to 2012. Right after the program, some of the Consulate personnel joined Consul General Garibay in the bowling fun game held at the Jeddah Lanes, Mosaadiah Center, Madina, Jeddah, K.S.A. The Spouses and Dependents' Association, led by Madame Omega A. Garibay, also participated in the game. The said activity was part of the Consul General's initiative to develop physical fitness and enhance closeness among the staff and their family. END.

Phl Consulate General in Jeddah Holds Human Rights Discussion Forum

Jeddah

3 January 2013 - In celebration of the National Human Rights Consciousness Week from 4 to 10 December 2012, the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, organized a Human Rights Discussion Forumamong Consulate personnel and some Filipino community leaders on December 10 at the Consulate's Community Hall.

Philippine Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay led the discussion, together with Vice Consul Rodney Jonas L. Sumague and Atty. Alejandro A. Padaen, Labor Attaché, on the primer on human rights and how these rights are protected in domestic legislation in the host country. During the open forum, Filipino community leaders shared their experiences about assisting fellow overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who were maltreated or whose rights were violated by their employers. Questions on labor violation issues were also raised and possible mechanisms to prevent human rights violations were also shared among the participants.

Jeddah 2

Donations for Victims of Typhoon Pablo
(International Code: Bopha)

The Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia wishes to announce that groups and individuals who would like to send donations for the victims of Typhoon Pablo may do so through the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Center (NDRRMC), Philippine Red Cross (PRC) or the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). They can send the donations through the following:

Cash Donations

NDRRMC

Bank	:	Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Camp Aguinaldo Branch, PVAO Compound, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Philippines 1110
Account name	:	NDRRMC Donated Funds
Account number	:	0435-021925-030 (Peso account) and 0435-021927-530 (dollar account);
Swift Code	:	DBPHPHMM Account #36002016
Contact Person	:	Ms. Rufina A. Pascual, Collecting Officer, NDRRMC, Office of Civil Defense, Camp Aguinaldo, Q. C.
Contact Nos.	:	+632 421-1920, 911-5061 up to 65 local 116
Email	:	This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
website	:	www.ndrrmc.gov.ph

DSWD

Bank	:	Land Bank of the Philippines, Batasan, Quezon City, Philippines
Account number	:	3124-0055-81
Contact Person	:	Ms. Fe Catalina Ea, Cash Division
Contact Nos.	:	(632) 931-8101 local 225; mobile phone (632) 918-628-1897
website	:	www.dswd.gov.ph

PRC

Bank	:	Banco De Oro
Account number	:	00-453-0018647 (Peso Account); 10-453-0039482 (dollar account)
Swift Code	:	BNORPHMM

Bank	:	Metrobank
Account number	:	151-3-041631228 (Peso Account); 151-2-15100218-2 (dollar account)
Swift Code	:	MBTCPHMM

Bank	:	Philippine National Bank
Account number	:	3752 8350 0034 (Peso Account); 3752 8350 0042 (dollar account)
Swift Code	:	PNBMPHMM

Bank	:	Union Bank of the Philippines
Account number	:	1015 4000 0201 (Peso Account); 1315 4000 0090 (dollar account)
Swift Code	:	UBPHPHMM

Contact Nos.	:	+623 527-000
Website	:	www.redcross.org.ph
Note	:	For donations to be properly acknowledged, please fax the bank transaction slip at PRC Nos. +632 527-0-575 or 404-0979 with your name, address and contact number.

Donations in Kind

Organization/ Address	:	DSWD National Resource Operations Center, Chapel Road, Pasay City, Philippines
Contact Person	:	Ms. Francia Fabian
Contact Nos.	:	+632 918-930-2356

Meals-ready-to-eat (MREs), which do not require cooking, and bottled waters are encouraged while used clothing is discouraged for donations in kind.

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL IN JEDDAH SPONSORED HAJJ NIGHT

31 October 2012 – The Philippine Consulate General culminated this year's Hajj season by sponsoring a Hajj Night on 31 October 2012 at the premises of the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, in honor of close to 6,000 Filipino pilgrims who successfully performed the Hajj.

The Hajj this year had the theme "Pilgrimage for Peace", in line with the recent signing of the GRP-MILF Framework Peace Agreement on 15 October 2012.

The Filipino pilgrims were among the four (4) million Muslims around the world who gathered in Makkah to perform the Hajj. This year's figure was the biggest so far.

Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay hosted the event and delivered the Welcome Remarks. Secretary Mehol K. Sadain of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) provided the response. Also present during the event were Commissioner Elias Yusoph (COMELEC), the NCMF Commissioners, Philippine local government officials, shaykhs and some of the pilgrims.

There were 247 invitees for the Hajj Night in addition to the officers and staff of the Philippine Consulate General.

In the photo are: (L-R) Labor Attache Alejandro Padaen, Vice Consul Jim Minglana, Vice Consul Rodney Jonas Sumague, Consul Germinia Aguilar-Usudan, Mrs. Agnes Ausan, Mrs. Nilda Sadain, Sec. Mehol Sadain, Mrs. Omega Garibay, Consul General Uriel Norman Garibay, Mayor Tucao Mastura, Commissioner Esmael Ebrahim and Consul Leo Tito Ausan.


	Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay and Mrs. Omega Garibay welcome Secretary Mehol K. Sadain of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) and his entourage to the Hajj Night.

	*Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay delivers the welcome remarks during the Hajj Night, in honor of the almost 6,000 Muslim pilgrims who successfully performed the Hajj*.

	Secretary Mehol K. Sadain delivers his message during the Hajj Night, emphasizing the significance of the Hajj and the need for sacrifice. The 2013 Hajj has a theme, "Pilgrimage for Peace".

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL IN JEDDAH WELCOMES AMIRUL HAJJ AND LAST BATCH OF FILIPINO "PILGRIMS FOR PEACE"

20 October 2012 - Officers and staff of the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah led by Consul General Uriel Norman R Garibay welcomed the Amirul Hajj (head of the Philippine Hajj Mission), Secretary Mehol K. Sadain of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) on 18 October 2012. Secretary Sadain arrived at the Hajj Terminal in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at around 1:00 a.m. together with the Commissioners of the NCMF and around 60 pilgrims. They represent the last batch of Filipino pilgrims who will perform the Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca).

From Left to Right: Consul Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr., COMELEC Commissioner Elias R. Yusoph, Secretary Mehol K. Sadain, NCMF Commissioner Edilwasif T. Baddiri, Consul General Uriel Norman R. Garibay, NCMF Commissioner Salem C. Demuna, Consul Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan and Vice Consul RJ Sumague.

Around 6,000 Filipino pilgrims, who started arriving in Jeddah in batches last 26 September, will perform the Hajj. The first batch was also welcomed by Philippine Consulate officers and staff led by Consul Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan and Vice Consul RJ Sumague.

According to the NCMF, this year's pilgrimage by Muslim Filipinos to Makkah (Mecca) has the theme "Pilgrimage for Peace" in support of the peace process in Mindanao. The pilgrims will be including in their prayers the achievement of a final and enduring peace in Mindanao in view of the recent signing of the framework agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Secretary Sadain noted that this may be the first time that a theme has been attached to the pilgrimage. He added that subsequent pilgrimages will be themed according to prevailing issues or concerns of the year.

Hajj 2012 is expected to last until 28 October with the celebration of Eid Al Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) to start on 26 October. END

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL IN JEDDAH CONDUCTS CONSULAR MOBILE SERVICES IN ASIR REGION

16 October 2012 – The Philippine Consulate General conducted Consular Mobile Services (CMS) on 10 to 12 October 2012 in the Asir region in an effort to reach out to more Filipinos in the Kingdom. The CMS Team, led by Vice Consul RJ Sumague, was composed of consulate staff and personnel from the attached agencies, including the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)-Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Pag-IBIG Fund and Social Security System (SSS).

Passporting services during the CMS

SSS, PAG-IBIG and POLO-OWWA providing services toFilipinos in Asir Region

The CMS Team served 648 renewal of passports, 17 extension of passports and 50 notarials of various consular documents. Aside from passporting and notarial services, the Team also received requests for assistance involving labor problems and other assistance to nationals concerns.

Leaders and members of various Filipino Community Organizations in the Asir region, led by Mr. Virgilio Crisostomo, the Consulate's Area Coordinator, assisted in providing consular services to Filipino nationals who went to the Azizia Hotel in Khamis Mushayt where the CMS was conducted.

The Asir region, which includes the provinces of Abha, Khamis Mushayt and Al Namas, is located in the Southwestern part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Filipino nationals from the nearby provinces of Najran and Jizan also availed of the CMS. The region is one of the areas of the Kingdom with the biggest number of Filipinos.

The Consulate is scheduled to return to the region within the first quarter of next year to continue consular services for Filipino nationals in the area. END

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