President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized before New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon the Philippine government’s commitment to continue working with them in promoting regional peace and security, and safeguarding the rule of law. “So, I take this opportunity to emphasize the intent of the Philippines to continue working with New Zealand on promoting regional peace and security, and in safeguarding the rule of law under the framework of international law,” President Marcos said during the bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Luxon. Prime Minister Luxon is currently in Manila for a ..read more

(above) Billie Carani Jakobsson. photo / Migrant News By Ricky Matthew WELLINGTON – In a multicultural society like New Zealand, maintaining a strong connection to one’s cultural heritage can be a challenge, particularly for mixed-race individuals. In this short survey we found that this holds true for Filipino immigrants seeking to instil a sense of identity and appreciation for their Filipino roots in their children. With a focus on food and reading, Filipino parents are finding creative ways to keep their culturally assimilated and mixed-raced Filipino children in touch with their vibrant c ..read more

By Ricky Matthew (above:) Alma Villalobos of MVS Document Services. photo/Migrant News By Ricky Matthew cover photo: Alma Villalobos. credit / Migrant News AUCKLAND – The rapid increase of Filipino migrants settling in New Zealand, just over 100,000 according to the Philippine Embassy, has created a corresponding increase in business opportunities catering to this market. One business enterprise that is making waves in the Filipino community in New Zealand and beyond is MVS Document Services. This Auckland based company’s claim to fame is the introduction of an indispensable ser ..read more

            By Ricky Matthew In a foreign land that scarcely echoes the familiarity of home, Filipino migrants often find themselves navigating a delicate balance between assimilation and preserving their cultural identity. Yet, through the veins of every Filipino-Kiwi runs a spirit of patriotism and cultural pride that is undeniable. Over the last decade the Filipino-Kiwi Hero Awards has recognised countless Filipinos for their contributions to the community or success in their respective fields. Adjusting to a wildly different culture and having to fight to surv ..read more

By Ricky Matthew AUCKLAND – The distance between New Zealand and the Philippines is nearly 8000km, but what separates Filipinos from their homeland is more than just a 16-hour flight or a 900-hour jeepney ride. Filipino migrants in New Zealand find themselves so far from their homeland that it can be difficult to find a space to immerse themselves and their children in the Filipino culture. The longing to connect with their cultural roots shines a light on the importance of community events to help keep patriotic spirit burning. “An event commemorating Philippine Independence Day can help reig ..read more

By Ricky Matthew Photo credit: Allan Macala CHRISTCURCH – Beauty pageants have evolved significantly in recent years, transitioning from a narrow focus on physical appearance to encompass broader values such as community service and social impact. This shift reflects a growing awareness of societal issues like body dysmorphia and mental health. One beauty queen, Hillary Harris from Christchurch with Kiwi/European, Māori and Filipino heritage, has been involved in beauty pageants from a young age and is now making a return to the stage. However, her passion goes beyond showing of her appearance ..read more

above: Delia Richards (centre). photo supplied. By Ricky Matthew CHRISTCHURCH – In the heart of Christchurch, a celebration of Philippine culture takes place every year. The brainchild of Delia Richards, Philippines Day has become a cornerstone of cultural exchange, fostering connections between the Filipino community and the diverse population of Christchurch. Delia is the founder of Philippine Culture and Migrant Services and has been involved in the Filipino community for decades and continues to promote Philippine culture to Filipino youth and the wider community. “The organisation was set ..read more

Georgia waves to a crowd. She is wearing a large silver and red crown, a sash saying ‘MISS NEW ZEALAND’, and a cloak of feathers. Part of Georgia Waddington’s campaign for Miss New Zealand involved ambassador work for mental health charity I Am Hope and sexual violence victims’ trust Brave. Photo: Supplied Current Miss New Zealand Georgia Waddington says the role is about so much more than just beauty, while also giving her the chance to “learn so much about yourself”. Waddington was crowned Miss New Zealand last year at the age of 22. Originally from Christchurch and now living up north in Ca ..read more

By Ricky Matthew AUCKLAND – In a country where migrants often find themselves compelled to make a career shift due to factors such as a lack of local experience and outdated skills, one immigrant’s transition from the field of Information Technology (IT) to the cleaning business has been a noteworthy example of adaptability. Billy Candari, the founder of Royal Clean, a burgeoning cleaning business based in Auckland, reflects on his career journey and the challenges he faced. He remembers the early days of Royal Clean, which began in 2018 as a window cleaning business. “We started with window c ..read more

By Ricky Matthew AUCKLAND – Just like in the Philippines, Filipino pageants in New Zealand are becoming a source of pride for Filipinos all around the country. It is evident that communities are eager to get involved in uplifting contestants and supporting them with learning about their cultural heritage. “Beauty pageants are like sporting events for Filipinos,” says Maricel Weischede, proud mother of the Miss Philippines NZ 2003 winner, Katharina Weischede. “Just like an athlete needs a team of coaches and trainers, Katharina had a team of passionate supporters who helped her win the crown a ..read more