PCG
Conducts PAOS at Diocesan Pastoral Centre
21 February 2005
The Philippine
Consulate General conducted its second Post Arrival Orientation Seminar (PAOS)
for 2005 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre for Filipinos in Hong Kong on 20
February 2005
PAOS is a monthly
outreach activity designed to inform the Filipino community about the
various programs and services offered by the Consulate and attached
agencies. The focus of PAOS is to create an awareness among Filipinos in
Hong Kong, not solely for the newly-arrived workers, about their rights
and obligations under the Contract signed and how to benefit and take
advantage of their stay in Hong Kong. It was also geared towards providing
information and practical tips while living in HK.
A total of 134
participants attended the second PAOS for the year. It was spearheaded by
the Consulate’s Assistance to Nationals Section (ATN), led by Vice Consul
Vic Dimagiba. Representatives from OWWA, POLO and SSS also attended as
resource speakers.
The second PAOS
also coincided with the 9th anniversary celebration of the St.
Matha Community of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre for Filipinos, who
provided administrative support for the PAOS team.
Ms. Sharon Chow of Caritas-HK gave a short presentation on the culture of
the Hong Kong Chinese, highlighting the following:
·
Generally, the Chinese are not demonstrative in their affections unlike
Filipinos;
·
Hearing the Chinese talk or converse in loud voices is normal and should
not be misconstrued as sign of anger;
· Some
Chinese believe in various superstitions such as cutting one’s hair and
buying a pair of shoes before the Chinese New Year may bring bad luck and
that sweeping the floor during the first three days of the New Year is not
advisable as this may drive out the good luck;
·
Black and white are regarded as colors of mourning.
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