PCG Vancouver Hosts the 2024 Consultations of Philippine Foreign Service Posts in Canada

Participants to the annual Consular and Economic Consultations pose for a group photo. (Photo by Vancouver PCG)

VANCOUVER, 16 December 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver successfully hosted the annual Consular and Economic Consultations (CEC) of the Philippine Foreign Service Posts in Canada (Philippine Embassy in Ottawa, the Philippine Consulates General in Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver), led by Ambassador Maria Andrelita S. Austria, on 14-15 December 2024.

The two-day consultations brought together senior officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), headed by Assistant Secretary Jose Victor Chan-Gonzaga, who provided updates on the latest policy directions concerning policy directions, consular services, economic initiatives, cultural and public diplomacy, assistance to nationals, and other key areas.

Representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Philippine Social Security System (SSS) were also present to share updates on their respective programs.

The session was further enriched by the participation of the Philippine Honorary Consuls in Saskatchewan and Winnipeg, ensuring a unified approach in delivering services and promoting Philippine interests across Canada.

Philippine Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita S. Austria delivered the opening remarks, providing direction and insights on enhancing diplomatic, consular & ATN, economic and cultural initiatives across Canada.

In her welcome remarks, Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of the consultations as a platform for learning and collaboration.

The consultations underscored the importance of cohesive strategies to address the needs of Filipino communities while strengthening economic, cultural, and political ties between the Philippines and Canada. END

(Left photo) Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin officially welcomes delegates to the two-day consultations, underscoring the importance of collaboration among Philippine Foreign Service Posts in Canada, DFA offices and partner agencies. (Right photo) Philippine Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita S. Austria sets the tone for the consultations with her opening remarks. (Photos by Vancouver PCG)