RABAT PE’S FIRST PASKONG PINOY 2022
Rabat, 20 December 2022 - A year after its re-opening and the continuing ease of restrictions in this pandemic, the Philippine Embassy in Rabat conducted its first Paskong Pinoy 2022 on the fourth Sunday of Advent, 18 December. Themed, “Pagkakaisa Tungo Sa Diwa ng Pasko”, members of the Filipino Community in Rabat and nearby cities of Casablanca, Tangier, Al-Jadida, Fez and Marakech again showed their unity, oneness and togetherness in this festive celebration in the traditional and truly “Filipino way” : coloful “parols”, “kakanins, biko, bibingka”, parlor games and gift- giving for everyone.
Shouts, laughter, or simply watching if not “catching up” on each other marked the day’s colorful event under a bright, sunny and cold Moroccan weather. (Photo by Tin Dungao, Rabat PE)
In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Leslie J. Baja gladly welcomed and thanked all members of the Filipino Community who travelled to Rabat to join in this merry occasion, an event, he said that will be a regular feature of the Embassy’s partnership with the Community. Co-inciding with “International Migrants’ Day”, Ambassador Baja also greeted all Filipino migrants in Morocco, recalling their resilient efforts in both the opportunities and challenges that face today’s migrants.
Ambassador Baja as he welcomed everyone to Paskong Pinoy 2022 (Photo by Tin Dungao, Rabat PE)
Prayers in Arabic and English were recited to open the event at noontime. This year’s “Paskong Pinoy” also saw the participation in a Filipino Community event for the first time of members of the religious congregations, Petites Soeurs de Jésus (Little Sisters of Jesus) and the Franciscan Order. The awarding of baskets of Christmas goodies to “tombola” winners and cash prizes to the winners of the Christmas Carol Singing, “Paskong Pinoy”-themed booth display and POLO’s Christmas décor contests capped the day’s event.
Entries to POLO’s Christmas décor contest highlighted the use of recycled and local materials. (Photo by Tin Dungao, Rabat PE)
END
