HISTORY
From its humble beginnings in 2005, FIM came about with it's primary goal to provide an informative reading material for fellow OFWs in Hong Kong. It aimed to foster mutual respect and understanding among other OFWs regardless of educational background, regions, religious beliefs and traditions.
FIM was succesfuly introduced in Hong Kong to the Filipino community by its original publisher Ms. Rosalina Merkenich. In June 2006, she migrated to Australia with her husband and decided to transfer its ownership.
She handed the reins over to a group which she believed will continue the legacy and reputation she had already started in the community.
Capt. Rosendo C. Herrera, a known ship captain and owner of Oriental Ship Management Co., Mr. Ruben B. Linsao, former Marketing Manager of Philippine National Bank Hong Kong, and Mr. Arnold P. Grospe, former Sales & Operations Manager of LBC Hong Kong and Managing Director of Smart Way International Ltd., took over where Ms. Merkenich left off.
From June 2006 onwards, changes and improvements to the magazine were applied to reflect the new ownership's commitment to making the magazine better.
Mr. Linsao eventually left FIM to pursue an employment opportunity inline with his profession as a CPA in an accounting firm in Hong Kong.
New Art Director, Mr. Willy Castanar shares his expertise in the creative design and conceptualization of every issue. He was vital in the constant changes and improvements of FIM.
The excellent support of ace photographer, Bobby Campus was also beneficial in the new look of the monthly issues as he covers the activities and functions of the OFW community in Hong Kong.
In addition, FIM website was also launched so kababayans around the globe can access the magazine easily and now read their favorite columns and articles on the worldwide web.
FIM continues to grow and more association leaders are embracing it and are participating and contributing their activities and experiences in every issue.
More columns were also added: Legal Matters of barrister Ody Lai, At Your Service of Bro. Rolly Estrella, The Day You Came Along novel of OWWA representative Ms. Cora Carsola and the spiritual advise column of Bro. Eddie Villanueva, President and founder of Jesus Is Lord (JIL) movement.
FIM has been fortunate to have these four very dedicated volunteer columnists who are invaluable in keeping it filled with spiritual nourishment for fellow OFWs in Hong Kong.
Bro Eddie Villanueva spends much time in prayer and thought prior to writing his column. The other volunteer columnists also understand that what they write is food for thought and relief to the boredom and homesickness of fellow kababayans while away from their beloved families. Blessed are the readers to have these contributions to help them look at situations in a different light. Perhaps giving them a new perspective.
What a wonderful two years it has been. Meeting people of different cultures and values from around the globe and having developed some wonderful friendships. FIM is grateful for having very dedicated OFW volunteer contributors, sharing their talent and thoughts for the monthly issue.
In celebration of FIM's 2nd year anniversary and as a way of showing their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to their readers, advertisers and to fulfill their mission to the OFW community in Hong Kong, Friends International Magazine is now distributed FREE of charge.
Rest assured that your magazine will continue to provide an even more wholesome and informative reading material in hopes that your support will stay as they celebrate another anniversary from this year and thereafter.