A forum on microfinancing in the Philippines was held last 2 January at the All Saint’s Parish Centre, Liverpool sponsored by the VAA Inc. and PCC-NSW Inc.

The speakers were Bob Alipalao and Violi Calvert from the North Shore Filipino Association (NSFA), who spoke on the associations’ involvement in the microfinance project. They both explained the history of the development of the Micro-Credit Project Program that began in collaboration with NORFIL which stands for NorwegianFilipino.

NORFIL is a registered non-government organization based in the Philippines. It is licensed and accredited by the Department of Social Welfare and Development as a family / child welfare and community development agency.

The project not only involves physical work to make money to help the community and family, but is also designed to seek changes in the attitudes, lifestyle and character of the individuals involved. It also aims to bring out positive changes that will help the community and families involved better themselves inwardly and spiritually as well.

The North Shore Filipino Association has funded NORFIL projects related to Vinegar Making, Bakery, Therapeutic Massage, Cabinet Making, Chicharon Making, Catering Services, Hairdressing, Sari Sari Store, Tamarind Candy Making, and Slipper Making.

The info session was well attended, with a number of the PCC-NSW Inc. present and past officers, the Visayan Association Inc. officers and members, the Leon Aguila Association Officers, Plaza Filipino, and Fil-Oz Liverpool.

Richard J Ford JP – Press Relations Officer for Visayan Association Inc, Evestcco-Eastern Visayas Community, Calapenos and Friends Association and the Vice-President (External) for Fil-Oz Liverpool and Districts.

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