Hong Kong – Filipino professionals from diverse fields – including architecture, nursing, midwifery, real estate brokerage, teaching, civil and chemical engineering, and social work – gathered on 8 November 2026 to establish the Philippine Professional Organization (PPO) Hong Kong.
Spearheaded by Labor Attaché Cesar L. Chavez, Jr. of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Hong Kong, the initiative brings professionals together under a voluntary, non-profit, and non-political umbrella organization that promotes collaboration, professional development, mutual support, and community engagement.
Consul General Romulo Victor M. Israel, Jr. hailed the establishment as a historic milestone. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s time in Hong Kong, he urged members to foster unity, knowledge-sharing, networking, and mutual support through bayanihan and shared Filipino values. He envisioned the PPO as a partner of the Philippine Consulate General, MWO Hong Kong, OWWA Hong Kong, and other Philippine government agencies in advancing community interests.
“Today marks a milestone in Hong Kong. Remember the day: 8 November 2026, the establishment of the Philippine Professional Organization in Hong Kong,” Chavez said.
The assembly elected an Interim PPO Governing Council to lay the organization’s foundations, develop its governance structure, and prepare for the election of permanent officers. The elected Council officers are:
President : Engr. Brix Chico
Vice President : Ms. Gemma Lauraya
Secretary : Arch. Josie Evangelista
Treasurer : Ms. Lorna Pagaduan
Auditor : Arch. Eljon Santos
Public Relations Officer : Engr. Joel Fernandez
Labor Attaché Chavez congratulated the officers and affirmed MWO Hong Kong’s commitment to working with the Council on professional growth, community participation, and stronger ties with Philippine government institutions.
MWO Hong Kong provided seed funding for the PPO’s initial operations and organizational development, helping establish its administrative and operational foundations.
OWWA Hong Kong Welfare Officer Marilou M. Sumalinog delivered the closing remarks.
The PPO’s establishment strengthens Filipino professionals’ collective voice, leadership, and contributions to community development and service to overseas Filipinos.
