National Party MP Paulo Garcia, New Zealand’s first MP of Filipino descent said “As a proud Filipino New Zealander, I’m excited to see our community expanding and making significant contributions across the nation. The growth from 72,000 to 100,000 Filipinos is a reflection of the hard work, values, and culture we bring to New Zealand.”
Garcia pointed out the increasing prominence of Tagalog as a sign of how deeply Filipinos are becoming integrated into New Zealand’s fabric, while still preserving their cultural heritage.
“This surge in numbers also highlights the increasing prominence of Tagalog as one of the fastest-growing languages here. It’s a sign of how deeply Filipinos are becoming integrated into the fabric of New Zealand society, while also keeping our traditions alive,” he said.
He said the growth of the Filipino community isn’t only about numbers but also about their broader impact. “Our community’s growth is not only about numbers; it is about how we are contributing to New Zealand’s social, cultural, and economic landscape. We see Filipinos in every sector, from healthcare to business, from education to law, and this growing presence continues to enrich our society.”
Garcia, who became an MP in 2019, said “We are more than just a growing number—we are a growing voice in New Zealand. The Filipino community is becoming an integral part of this country’s future, and I am dedicated to ensuring that this voice is heard in Parliament and beyond.”
Garcia also highlighted his recent visit to the Philippines alongside Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, saying it was a significant moment for Filipino communities in New Zealand.
“I am proud to have joined the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on his recent Southeast Asia business trip, including our visit to the Philippines, which was a significant highlight for Filipino communities in New Zealand. The Government recognises the hard work of Filipinos here and is committed to exploring more opportunities for engagement with the Philippines.
“The Filipino community’s influence will only continue to grow, and I’m proud to be part of a movement that strengthens New Zealand’s multicultural identity.”
Broadcaster Chris Lynch is an award winning journalist who also produces Christchurch news and video content for domestic and international companies. Chris blogs at Chris Lynch Media - where this article was sourced.
“This surge in numbers also highlights the increasing prominence of Tagalog as one of the fastest-growing languages here. It’s a sign of how deeply Filipinos are becoming integrated into the fabric of New Zealand society, while also keeping our traditions alive,” he said.
He said the growth of the Filipino community isn’t only about numbers but also about their broader impact. “Our community’s growth is not only about numbers; it is about how we are contributing to New Zealand’s social, cultural, and economic landscape. We see Filipinos in every sector, from healthcare to business, from education to law, and this growing presence continues to enrich our society.”
Garcia, who became an MP in 2019, said “We are more than just a growing number—we are a growing voice in New Zealand. The Filipino community is becoming an integral part of this country’s future, and I am dedicated to ensuring that this voice is heard in Parliament and beyond.”
Garcia also highlighted his recent visit to the Philippines alongside Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, saying it was a significant moment for Filipino communities in New Zealand.
“I am proud to have joined the Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on his recent Southeast Asia business trip, including our visit to the Philippines, which was a significant highlight for Filipino communities in New Zealand. The Government recognises the hard work of Filipinos here and is committed to exploring more opportunities for engagement with the Philippines.
“The Filipino community’s influence will only continue to grow, and I’m proud to be part of a movement that strengthens New Zealand’s multicultural identity.”
Broadcaster Chris Lynch is an award winning journalist who also produces Christchurch news and video content for domestic and international companies. Chris blogs at Chris Lynch Media - where this article was sourced.
4 comments:
The importnt thing is that being faintly brown they do not adopt the victim mentality of maori and identify and vote with, as there will be nothinng in it for them.
Every Filipino I have met here in NZ has been smiling and very happy to be here.
They are taking on jobs and careers that many NZers don't want to do, so I frequently thank them and acknowledge their contributions to our society.
Is he a "Filipino New Zealander" of the "Filipino community" or is he a New Zealander of the New Zealand community?
He talks like it's the former, which gives us an insight into what our future will be, which is millions of extra people coming in from anywhere and everywhere, with no shared history or heritage, living as distinct racial and ethnic "communities" on the same land.
That's not a cohesive nation, it's an economic zone with conflict always just beneath the surface.
Being a Filipino New Zealander of a NZ Filipino community does not mean they don't want to participate in NZ society. Do NZers living overseas cease being of NZ heritage? Most Filipinos are also fluent in English, are a friendly people and have a good work ethic. They keep their own culture alive by their own efforts. They don't play the victim card and expect others to do it for them. By the way, the Philippines history of colonialism is far worse than our country, but they don't dwell on the past; just get on as best they can with life without complaint. Our ethnic population could do well to follow their example
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