HOUSE ETHICS COMMITTEE ENGAGES FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN EMBASSY TOWN HALL

PRESS RELEASE
WDC-54-2024
15 July 2024
Embassy Press and Information Section
info@phembassy-us.org

Distinguished members of the Philippine House Committee on Ethics and Privileges visited the Embassy of the Philippines on 10 July 2024 to engage in a productive town hall meeting with Filipino community members based in the Washington area.

Led by Committee Chair Rep. Felimon M. Espares (COOP NATCCO), the House Committee met with its counterpart Ethics Committees in the US Senate and House of Representatives. Joining Rep. Espares were Rep. Jernie Jett V. Nisay (Pusong Pinoy), Rep. Peter B. Miguel (2nd District, South Cotabato), and Rep. Crispin Diego D. Remulla (7th District, Cavite). The Committee on Ethics and Privileges handles matters relating to the duties, conduct, and integrity of the House of Representatives and its members.

“As neophyte congressmen, we are dedicated to ensuring that the voices of overseas Filipinos are heard and represented,” said Representative Espares. “This is an opportunity for us to listen and learn from our kababayan in the United States.”

In welcoming the Congressional team, Chargé d’Affaires Jaime Ascalon, Jr. said, “it is our privilege to host the House Ethics Committee. We at the Philippine Embassy recognize the vital role of the Filipino community in shaping government policy.”

Topics discussed during the town hall meeting ranged from healthcare and education to current economic and political issues. The Committee provided valuable insights into how they can help as legislators.

Ms. Donna Rodriguez, the Embassy’s new Consul General, thanked the House Committee for their engagement, and emphasized the importance of continued dialogue between the government and the community.

Prior to the town hall meeting, the House Committee held discussions with officials of the Philippine Embassy to explore legislative opportunities and discuss the latest developments in Philippines-U.S. relations. ###