26 June 2015 - The Philippine Consulate General in Sydney, led by Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis, together with the personnel and their families, gathered at the official residence for a solemn flag-raising ceremony on June 12. After the Philippine flag was raised, the participants recited the “PanunumpasaWatawat”, and the Independence Day messages of President Benigno S. Aquino III, Vice President Jejomar C. Binay, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario and Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz were read.
After the flag-raising ceremony and program, the Consulate personnel and their dependents shared a traditional Filipino breakfast.
On June 14, the Consulate General hosted a flag ceremony and cultural program at the Consulate General’s Bulwagang Rizal attended by around 140 Filipino community leaders, members of the media and other guests. During the program, the Independence Day messages of President Aquino and other government officials were also read.
Ms. Roanne Monte, a talented Filipino-Australian artist gave a stirring rendition of the patriotic song, “Bayan Ko” followed by the religious song, “I Love the Lord”. Mr. Armando Guevarra recited the poem he wrote especially for the occasion entitled, “Kalayaan 2015,” a passionate appeal to Filipinos to honor the sacrifices of the heroes of the Philippine Revolution. Mr. Miguel Castro, Filipino Tenor, gave a moving interpretation of the nationalistic song, “Ika’yLupangHinirang, Perlas ng Silangan” and serenaded the audience with a medley of kundimans called the “4/4thMedley”. According to the attendees, the songs and poem featured at the program awakened in them love of country and evoked memories of their families back home.
During the program, Consul General Louis discussed the theme for this year’s Philippine Independence Day celebration, “TagumpaysaPagbabagongNasimulan, Abot-Kamay Na Ng Bayan” or “Independence 2015: Triumphs Through Reforms, Within Nation’s Reach.” She encouraged the members of the Filipino community in New South Wales to honor the memory of our heroic forefathers by continuing to contribute to Philippine nation-building, and by representing the country with pride in their respective fields of endeavor.
Consul General Louis also updated the Filipino community leaders and members of the media on developments on the West Philippine Sea issue. She encouraged them to participate in the flag-raising ceremonies held in June in various cities in New South Wales and reiterated the ongoing overseas voters registration which will end on October 31.
Consul General Louis acknowledged Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Sta. Barbara of SBC Pty. Ltd., Mr. and Mrs. Prudie Miranda of Milchreshel Bakery, and Ms. Pamela Ortiz of Kikay Hair Bar, for their contributions to the program which made the event even more successful.
After the program, the Consulate General hosted a Filipino breakfast of pan de sal, lumpia and arrozcaldo. END