The Filipino Community in Laois want to introduce themselves
Photographed at one of the many social events organised by the Laois Filipino Community.
THERE are up to 500 people living in Laois from the Philippines.
Quite a few are employed in the community health care sector, engineering and medical profession and reside in all corners of the county.
Five years ago, during an informal gathering of a small number of families of Filipinos they agreed to form a committee to help support new Filipinos arriving in Laois. That small group have now expanded and has grown into a vibrant and active group – the Laois Filipino Community.
They hold regular meet ups and social gatherings to exchange their experiences and plan family fun events.
The committee for the coming year was elected at their recent annual general meeting and is - Chairman: Florentino Bajo. Vice Chairman: Mary Dobson and Nanette Mando. Secretary: Aidel Casabar. Treasurer: Josie Stanley. PRO: Gen Dempsey.
There are several events planned for the coming months with the highlight of the events being the annual Laois Filipino Community Christmas Party. It’s taking place in the Killeshin Hotel, Dublin Road, Portlaoise on Friday 28 November.
Those in attendance, both young and old, will be wearing traditional Filipino costumes and the hotel will be decorated with Filipino designs.
The Laois Filipino Community hope to take part in the Portlaoise Saint Patrick’s Day Parade next March, “to say thank you and hello to the people of Portlaoise and to Laois” where they will bring plenty of colour and fun to the streets of the town.
