October 7, 2024

A vibrant community of Filipinos is making significant contributions in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) across various sectors, notably construction and education.

Mr. Barry Tantiongco Antonio takes charge as the Administrator of Whessoe Philippines Construction, Inc., the largest employer of Filipinos in Laos. Currently overseeing 305 workers on the Luang Prabang Hydro-Electric Project, Barry aims to increase that number to 600 by next year.

Pastor Jamin Velez Rodero, an agriculturist, has dedicated himself to humanitarian work since moving to Laos in 2008. He and his wife Annette founded the Learning Sanctuary Homeschool in Vientiane in 2019, which has grown from seven (7) to 22 students, focusing on education for less fortunate children in Vientiane.

Meanwhile, Ms. Angelyn Socorro Rodriguez Ponce moved to Laos with her husband, Ebenezer Ponce, in 2023. Both are now teachers in Vientiane, contributing to the local educational landscape.

These stories reflect the resilience and adaptability of the Filipino community in Laos, enriching the nation’s cultural fabric and fostering a spirit of cooperation and support.

* * *