Trade group supports consulate’s dual passport advocacy

Photo shows Deputy Consul General Anthony Mandap (center) flanked by PCTC directors (from L) David MacGrotty, Ray Lino, Gigi Astudillo, PCTC President Wilbur Victoria, Jorge Marcó, Cristie Sotana-Tayde, Gerry Reonisto, and Gary Manansala. (Photo by Andy Naval/Accugraphics).

Members and officers of Vancouver-based Philippines-Canada Trade Council (PCTC) held a networking event and Christmas party last Dec. 4, with Deputy Consul General Anthony Mandap as special guest speaker.

Consul Mandap spoke about the benefits of maintaining a Philippines passport despite acquiring Canadian or other citizenship, among them being the full right to vote, to own real property, and to engage in business or to practice one’s profession in the Philippines.

PCTC members were also asked to give short updates about their business. PCTC President Wilbur Victoria opened the evening with a prayer for guidance for the coming year and gave a glimpse of upcoming activities for 2015.

The event ended with a raffle, and the grand prize was provided by Coast Hotel. For more information about PCTC, please visit www.pctcnet.org.