Today is a special occasion for me and my family. Just a few hours ago, we were awarded our New Zealand citizenship papers. Along with some 500 people, we attended our citizenship ceremony at the Bruce Mason Centre. After reciting an oath of allegiance to Queen Elizabeth II, we were given our respective certificates of citizenship.

Truth be told, I didn’t have any second thoughts about applying for citizenship in this great country. From the moment I arrived, I have been treated fairly and with respect. New Zealand has given me a second chance at life - to provide something better for my family especially for my children.

This is not to say that I’ve totally forgotten about the land of my birth. I will always hold the Philippines dear in my heart. I am still instilling in my children the positive values of our culture.

Actually, I feel that I have done my fair share in serving the Filipino people as I have worked in the public sector for most of my working life, majority of which I spent with the Office of the President and its attached agencies. I can proudly say that I have served the Philippines with conviction and integrity.

Now that I am a New Zealander, I am now committed to my adoptive country. I now join my fellow Kiwis in continuing to build a stronger independent country. New Zealand’s future is now our future.