PHL Embassy in New Zealand holds contests for Independence Day

Philippine officials in New Zealand held an on-the-spot essay writing and poster-making contests in time for the 113th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the contest, held on May 15 at the St. Joseph Parish Hall, was also in time for the 150th birth anniversary of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. “The contests were held in relation to the upcoming 113th Independence Day celebration on June 12 along with the commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal," the DFA said. The DFA said the theme for the poster-making contest was “Keeping My Philippine Heritage Alive in New Zealand" while for the essay writing contest was “My Inspirations from Our National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal." Some 14 persons joined the poster-making contest which had three categories: children, teen and adult. Seven persons participated in the essay writing contest, which had teen and adult categories. The winners will be announced during the cultural program, which will be held before the June 12 celebration at the Indian Community Centre in Wellington. - VVP, GMA News