12 October 2015 - The Philippine Embassy in Rome, in partnership with the Prefecture of Rome (Prefettura di Roma), conducted a forum on citizenship on October 08.

During the forum, Philippine Ambassador to Italy Domingo P. Nolasco conveyed the Embassy’s commitment and continued efforts to assist Filipinos in their integration efforts in Italy. In this context, he highlighted the importance of being informed on the laws of the host country, such as acquisition of its citizenship and the consequent rights and privileges attached to it.

The Ambassador also informed on the civil, economic and political rights enjoyed by those who reacquire/retain Philippine citizenship. He took the opportunity to encourage Filipinos who have not yet done so to register for overseas voting for the purpose of the 2016 elections, and informed on the schedule for registration both in and outside Rome.

Vice Prefect Maria Gabriella Casaccio, Head of the Office for Italian Citizenship and Legalization of the Prefecture of Rome was the guest speaker during the forum. She encouraged Filipinos in Italy to engage more directly with local institutions such as the Prefettura and explained in detail the new on-line procedure for applying for Italian citizenship. Ms. Casaccio stressed the simplicity of the procedure and discouraged Filipino community members to pay third parties to apply on their behalf.

The Embassy’s Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) Officer Bernice Santayana, on the other hand, discussed the documentary requirements and procedures for the application for the Reacquisition/Retention of Philippine Citizenship, as provided under R.A. 9225. END