A Filipino support group called for unity and understanding within Bermuda’s Filipino community after the outcome of their homeland’s presidential election.

Evelou Mosley, a founder of the Association of the Filipinos in Bermuda, said that it was “heartbreaking” to see the political divide in her country and called for unity regardless of political views.

She added: “Unity is a strength — when we focus on teamwork and collaboration, we all can achieve wonderful things.

“Disagreements should never diminish our respect for one another.

“For democracy, let us seek to express our thoughts without being disagreeable.”

Ms Mosley was speaking during a celebration to recognise the election of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr as the 17th president of the Republic of the Philippines and Sara Duterte-Carpio as the country’s 15th vice-president.

The UniTeam International Bermuda Chapter hosted the celebration, which saw dozens of people in attendance, at Astwood Park in Warwick last Sunday.

The Philippines’ election was held on May 9 and Mr Marcos and Ms Duterte-Carpio were declared the winners on May 25.

Mr Marcos is the son of Ferdinand Macros Sr, the country’s former dictator who ruled the Philippines for 21 years and was later accused of stealing at least $5 billion from the Central Bank of the Philippines.

His family’s legacy brought controversy to the younger Macros’s presidential campaign, with many claiming that Mr Marcos was attempting to whitewash his father’s rule.

Attendees of Sunday’s celebration were treated to traditional Filipino dishes, as well as several folk and modern dance routines.

Michael Soriano and Boyet Katigbak, the celebration’s masters of ceremony, also held several raffles, while Gloria Sarimento, a member of the UniTeam committee, led the crowd in the country’s national anthem and patriotic oath.

Attendees also enjoyed boating exercises and Zumba classes.