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Ankara, 23 November 2024 – The Philippine Embassy in Ankara successfully conducted a Gender and Development (GAD) event aimed at empowering Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) with essential knowledge about their rights and responsibilities. The event, moderated by Attaché Helena Tan, ATN Officer and GAD Focal Point, was livestreamed on Facebook to ensure broader participation.

The program featured three significant lectures:

  • Labor and Immigration Laws of Türkiye
  • Observance of the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women
  • New Requirements for Passport Applications

His Excellency Henry S. Bensurto Jr., Philippine Ambassador to Türkiye, Georgia, and Azerbaijan, delivered welcome remarks emphasizing the Embassy’s commitment to promoting gender equality and protecting migrant rights.

Key speakers included Atty. Laçin Köktürk, who discussed Türkiye’s labor and immigration laws; Atty. Zeynep Köktürk, who lectured on strategies to end violence against women; and Minister and Consul General Juan E. Dayang, Jr., who provided updates on new passport requirements. The event concluded with a certificate awarding ceremony led by Ambassador Bensurto.

Following the GAD program, the Filipino community celebrated meaningful Filipino Christmas traditions. Fr. Seraphin from Meryem Ana Church in Ankara presided over a Simbang Gabi/Holy Mass held at the Embassy. After the Mass, the community gathered for the lighting of the Christmas tree, the singing of Christmas carols, and a festive noche buena dinner hosted by the Embassy.

The Philippine Embassy continues to be a pillar of support for Filipinos in Türkiye, providing not only practical assistance but also fostering a sense of unity and cultural heritage within the community.

For updates on Embassy programs and activities, follow us on our official Facebook page. END

 

IMG 0553Ambassador Henry S. Bensurto Jr. delivered his welcome remarks during the GAD activity on 23 November 2024.

IMG 0615Atty. Laçin Köktürk lectured on the labor and immigration laws of Türkiye.

IMG 0664Atty. Zeynep Köktürk presented the laws and regulations in Türkiye aimed at protecting women migrants.

IMG 0854Minister and Consul General Juan E. Dayang Jr. briefed the Filipino community on the Philippine passport application requirements.

IMG 0838Attys. Laçin and Zeynep Köktürk presented a token of remembrance from Zonguldak, Türkiye, to Ambassador Bensurto.

IMG 0776Attys. Laçin and Zeynep Köktürk presented a token of remembrance from Zonguldak, Türkiye, to Ambassador Bensurto.

IMG 0885Ambassador Bensurto posed for a souvenir photo with some participants.