By Nazario Rodriguez Jr.
Horizon news staff

Paramount Chief Reklai Raphael Bao Ngirmang and Philippine Ambassador Ramoncito Marino were the special guests during the induction of officers of the newly established Melekeok Filipino Community Club on Sunday Feb. 4.
Chief Reklai personally organized the MFCC, which has a total membership of 45, through an initial advice from Amb. Marino.
Reklai recognized the great contribution of the Filipinos to the State of Melekeok and reiterated his commitment to make the group an initial step towards the formation of similar organizations in other states.
Marino brought the whole staff of the Philippine Embassy in Palau and presented to the members of the MFCC, including Vice Consul Tony Reyes and wife Marjo and Administrative Officer Romeo Velasco.
Marino administered the oat of office for the MFCC officers;
They were William Blasquino (President), Renato "Ronnie" Aquino (Vice President), Jane Ramos (Jane Ramos), Mae Zharisu Lopez (Treasurer), Tha Briones (Auditor) and Cely Blasquino (P.R.O.). The Peace Officers are Christopher Llaneras, Bert Cabigting and the members of the Board are Ariel Raydanas, Christian Dazula, Alex Bello, Rose Valencia, Ely Ramirez, Robin Baysa and Danny Calaunan.
Marino explained them about the Embassy’s outreach program and benefits that it is offering like the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration card, discounts on medical expenses to the Belau Medical Clinic, Palau Mobile Corporation, excess baggage to Asian Spirit and other things.
"We’re working a lot of things for your benefit. My advice is to respect the laws of Palau and just do your job well," Marino said.
He advised them to practice on peaceful co-existence with the locals and avoid drinking too much to avoid trouble.
"We should respect ourselves so that the Palauan people should look to us. We should behave properly," he said.
Marino said that the Filipino workers are the real Ambassadors and "I am just your captain and I will serve you. I would like to meet you more often," he said.
Special guests were German couple, former television journalist Kudrun and Prof. Dr. Hans Wissmann, who are in Palau for a research work.
The couple videotaped the occasion and gave a copy for the organization.
Palau Royal Resort’s F&B Manager Allan Tuppil was the master of ceremonies.