We are pleased to introduce Mel Libre, a new candidate
for the Conservative Party and a man whose professional
experience, community leadership and commitment to service
span decades.
A retired Certified Public Accountant
and lawyer in the Philippines, Mel migrated to New Zealand
in 2005 and has built a strong connection with the community
he now calls home. His legal career included work as a
solicitor and barrister, with a focus on conveyancing and
immigration law. With extensive experience in both finance
and law, Mel believes that lower taxes encourage investment
and economic growth, while excessive regulation can become a
barrier to opportunity and enterprise.
Mel has also
demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting migrants and
strengthening communities. As a volunteer with the Migrant
Action Trust, he authored a petition in 2007 that helped
benefit work visa holders. Every December, he organises Open
Gathering, welcoming new migrants with food, gifts,
entertainment and, importantly, friendship and hospitality.
He believes migrants and work visa holders should be treated
fairly and given the support they need as they build their
lives in New Zealand.
With 50 years of experience in
media, Mel continues to pursue his passion for broadcasting
and podcasting through Free FM 89.0 in Hamilton, where he
promotes original music and poetry. He believes literature
and music have an important role to play in shaping society
for the better.
His commitment to service extends to
the elderly. Through regularly singing at retirement homes
in Hamilton, Mel has seen first-hand the importance of
ensuring our elderly and infirm are treated with care,
dignity and respect, while also supporting the healthcare
workers who care for them.
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An active participant in
church life and a music ministry leader, Mel believes New
Zealand was built through hard work, commitment and
faith-based values that are worth revisiting and
strengthening. Above all, he believes the strength of our
nation depends on the strength of its most important
foundation — the family.
Mel brings a proven record
of leadership across professional, charitable and community
organisations, including serving as:
- National
President of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public
Accountants - Vice President of the Integrated Bar of
the Philippines – Cebu City - Chairman of Philippine
Red Cross – Cebu - Chairman of SCEGA Multipurpose
Cooperative - Board Member of Migrant Action
Trust - Board Member of Waikato Filipino
Association
Today, Mel continues to serve as
Lead Servant of Tawag Awit Music Ministry and Host of the B
Orig Radio Show.
We are proud to welcome Mel to the
Conservative Party team. His experience in law, finance,
media and community leadership, combined with his commitment
to family, fairness, service and personal responsibility,
brings a valuable perspective to our growing team of
candidates.
