Manila Economic and Cultural Office annually holds "Paskong Pinoy" in Taiwan. On December 8, nearly a thousand Philippine migrant workers gathered together to celebrate Christmas in advance and brought a glimmer of South Seas style on the weekend at the Square in front of the Taoyuan City Government.
Paskong Pinoy also held a competition of eco-friendly Christmas lighting that the lighting was made of bottle caps and recycled materials. Besides, there was a creative customs catwalk show for the workers to show their creativity and 29 tour booths were also provided to serve the Philippine cuisines and ethnic goods.
The representative of Manila Economic and Cultural Office, Banayo, states that under the guidance of Mayor Chang, the diverse culture of Taoyuan and the diversity of people is well-maintained and also embraces the people working in Taoyuan from various countries. The Philippine friends have come to Taiwan and contributed a lot to Taiwan's enterprises and family services; hence, through holding "Paskong Pinoy" in Taiwan, the new residents would feel the same warmth of their hometown in this foreign place.
Chief Secretary Yan of the Taoyuan City Government indicates that the number of foreign migrant workers in Taoyuan ranks first in Taiwan. The migrant workers have come to Taoyuan to work and bring the South Seas culture to enrich this place. Taoyuan City Government and the Manila Economic and Cultural Office had not cooperated for the past 7 years until this year's "Paskong Pinoy". Taoyuan City Government also invited the local "DunQing" dance group and a Philippine famous singer to perform to accomplish the aim of cultural exchanges.
