Mayor Chu thanks Filipino workers at Taiwan-Philippines All-Star Basketball Game
To acknowledge Filipino workers’ contribution to New Taipei City, Department of Labor together with Manila Economic and Cultural Office today hosted the 2012 Taiwan-Philippines All-Star exhibition basketball game at Xinzhuang Gymnasium, New Taipei City. Mayor Chu attended the event and thanked Filipino workers for their contribution to Taiwanese society. He also said it was his honor to celebrate Philippine Independence Day and Migrant Workers Day with Filipino people.
On behalf of 4 million New Taipei citizens, Chu said he would like to thank Filipino workers for their help in achieving familial harmony, social stability, and economic growth in Taiwan. He wished today’s game could strengthen the cultural and sporting links between Taiwan and Philippines and help maintain the friendly relationship between both sides.
Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) Chairman, Amadeo R. Perez Jr., and Mayor Chu hosted the opening ceremonies of Filipino Workers Basketball Tournament and Taiwan-Philippines All-Star Basketball Game respectively. The Taiwanese team members included former SBL players such as Lee Yunxiang and Luo Xingliang while the Philippines team members included former PBA players Alvin Patrimonio, Joey Santamaria and Filipino artists Chris Tiu, Jason Abalos, etc. The Fans welcomed these players with their biggest cheers.
Also at the gym was shown the live broadcast of Filipino boxing champion, Manny Pacquiao’s boxing match before the basketball game. There was even a raffle competition during the intermission for fans to win presents such as cell-phones, pre-paid phone cards, etc.
According to Department of Labor, currently there are approximate 61000 foreign workers in New Taipei City, among which around 9000 are Filipino workers. The Department of Labor will hold events such as singing, speech competitions and conduct five health check-ups for foreign workers in the future with Tzu Chi Foundation.