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PH Consulate General, Filipino Community Hold Philippine Flag Raising Ceremony in Melbourne’s Federation Square

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The Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne held its annual flag raising ceremony in Federation Square in the heart of Melbourne with the Filipino Community, followed by a brunch served in the Consulate General’s premises. Over 150 people attended the two events. (Photo courtesy of Angelito Valdez, Jr.)

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The ceremony began with Ati-Atihan dancers from Morwell marching through Federation Square with onlookers from all directions, including Flinders Street Railway Station, Melbourne’s central and largest railway station. After their dance, the drummers then started the march of the colors, led by Major Bobby Gabayno, the Knights of Rizal, and Katipunan Australia. After their dance, the drummers then started the march of the colors, led by Major Bobby Gabayno, the Knights of Rizal, and Katipunan Australia. (Photo courtesy of Angelito Valdez, Jr.) 

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As Major Gabayno raised the flag, the Kiko Choir of Melbourne sang Lupang Hinirang. After the anthem, Filipino Priest Fr. Litoy Asis gave a blessing. (Photo courtesy of Angelito Valdez, Jr.)

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Consul Ralph Vincent C. Abarquez read the message of the President, while Consul Jan Sherwin Wenceslao read the message of the Secretary for Foreign Affairs. Ms. Estellita Casuga read the message of the Ambassador of the Philippines in Canberra. (Photo courtesy of Angelito Valdez, Jr.)

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Consul Abarquez then led an oathtaking ceremony in front of the flag for around 30 candidates for retention or reacquisition of Filipino Citizenship under R.A. 9225. (Photo courtesy of Angelito Valdez, Jr.)

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Mr. Fred Jover gave the closing remarks. Upon the conclusion of the ceremonies, participants were encouraged to proceed to the Consulate General’s premises for brunch. (Photo courtesy of Angelito Valdez, Jr.) 

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A traditional Filipino brunch was served in PCG premises, with Cafe Kusina being the lead caterer, with other dishes and drinks coming from Sarimanok, Barkada Pinoy, Purple Yum, Asian Pantry, and members of the Filipino Community. Dishes of Bangus, Tocino, Adobo, Longganisa, Sinangag, and Pancit were served, while for dessert traditional taho was served alongside ube and mango cupcakes. Calamansi juice was also readily available alongside Kape Barako. (Photo courtesy of Angelito Valdez, Jr.)

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During the brunch, the President’s message was played again, followed by the message of the First Lady. After the messages, Consul Abarquez and Consul Wenceslao held a ceremonial cutting of a three-tiered ube cake celebrating Kalayaan 2025. (Photo courtesy of Angelito Valdez, Jr.)

For more information, visit https://melbournepcg.dfa.gov.ph/.