Ambassador Christopher B. Montero (center) and empowered Filipino women in Brunei Darussalam during the event at the Philippine Chancery in the Diplomatic Enclave of the capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan.

15 OCTOBER 2020, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN - The Philippine Embassy in Brunei Darussalam recently organized a “High Tea with Empowered Filipino Women” to honor Filipino women who have embraced Islam and married to Bruneian citizens held at the Chancery on 14 October 2020.

All the attendees are long-time residents of Brunei who have played significant roles in the evolution of the Filipino community in the Sultanate and who, in their own way, have contributed to the economy and progress of the country from 1970’s up to the present.

In his message to the group, Philippine Ambassador Christopher B. Montero underscored that though they have long acquired Bruneian citizenship and have embraced the Sultanate’s way of life, its people and culture, as well as its religion, the Philippine Government still considers them as Filipinos at heart for they symbolize the enduring connection and perpetual link between our two countries.

“You are achievers in your own right, having attained success in various fields such as in business, health and education, arts and culture and in the public sector, among others. More importantly, you play a vital role as empowered women and mothers who constantly nurture and care for your respective households, thus enabling Brunei to sustain its economic growth and progress,” Ambassador Montero stressed. “I exhort you to continue serving as a bridge of understanding, harmony and goodwill between our two peoples, and may you remain as the Embassy’s partners in helping both the Filipino community in Brunei and Filipinos in the motherland,” the Ambassador concluded.  

At the gathering, each attendee shared stories of their respective journeys to Brunei Darussalam, and their role as mothers and professionals. The event is part of the Philippine Embassy’s gender and development (GAD) program for the current year to recognize the contributions of Filipino women in society. END

Attendees join the singing of the National Anthems of the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam.