500 Pinoys mark Christmas in Greece

Some 500 Filipinos based in Greece had a taste of their home country by holding a Philippine-themed christmas celebration in Athens last Sunday.

 

The Philippine Embassy in Athens said the Filipino community and Embassy celebrated "Paskong Pinoy 2011" at the Danaos Theater in Central Athens.

 

"This year's celebration revolved around the theme 'Pag-asa: Ang Diwa ng Pasko sa Gresya,' extolling hope, optimism, fortitude and the spirit of unity and cooperation among the Filipinos in Greece amidst the economic difficulties obtaining in the country," the embassy said.

 

It said the 500 Filipinos who attended the gathering came from various parts of Greece. Many of them are members of the Accredited Community Partners (ACP).

 

ACP is composed of community leaders and individuals who partner with the Embassy in many community events, programs and activities.

 

Filipino groups who joined the event included the ACP, CFC Kids for Christ, KASAPI, DIWATA, Ang Munting Nayon, VISMMAG, Bagong Kapwako Pilipino in Athens Organization, Philippine Guardians Brotherhood Inc., Filipino Community Academy Institute Association, Triskelion Athens, and KAPHILCA-PSG.

 

Philippine Ambassador to Greece Meynardo Montealegre commended the leaders of the ACP for choosing a relevant and timely theme.

 

He noted Filipinos in Greece remain optimistic and are ready to be one with fellow Filipinos in the true spirit of Christmas despite economic difficulties.

 

Montealegre reiterated the readiness of the Embassy to assist them in their needs.

 

He also invited the members of the Filipino community to encourage their fellow Filipinos to register for the Overseas Absentee Voting for the 2013 polls.

 

Also, he urged them to invite their Greek friends to visit the Philippines to enjoy the tourist destinations and explore trade and investment opportunities in the country.

 

During the gathering, contestants showcased creative talents in making parols out of recycled materials like empty bottle water containers, newspapers, magazines, empty beer cans and garlic peelings.

 

They also showed their talents in singing and dancing during the group presentations.

 

Raffle draws, and gift-giving to Filipino children also marked the day.

 

Ending the program was a "heartwarming" rendition of the song "Sa Araw ng Pasko," performed by representatives of various groups. — LBG, GMA News