09 November 2016 – The Philippine Embassy in Canberra welcomed more than 100 people to the outdoor grounds of the Embassy to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Philippines-Australia Diplomatic Relations through a public art installation designed by Filipino visual artist Francis Sollano.
The installation is based on the concept of “Fauna Friends” and pairs iconic animals from both the Philippines and Australia to symbolize the friendship between the two countries and our common interests in environmental conservation and sustainable development.
During his presentation, Francis introduced Youth for a Livable Cebu (YLC), the youth arm of the Movement for a Livable Cebu. YLC was formed by young professionals with a passion to make Cebu a better place to live in. YLC adopts a multi-stakeholder approach understanding that a collective response is necessary to achieve sustainable development. He recalls how he started with trashion, creating beautiful wearable art using waste, which has spurred greater awareness of the sustainable use of our resources and the power of transformation through creativity.
Participants discussed with Francis the programs of Youth for a Liveable Cebu, the future of sustainable development in Cebu City and the prospects of mainstreaming trashion in the fashion industry.
To cap off the program, Francis introduced the Philippine eagle message board where participants were invited to write their messages reflecting on the long-standing friendship between the Philippines and Australia. Philippine Ambassador to Australia Minda Calaguian-Cruz and special guest First Assistant Secretary Allaster Cox of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs were the first to post their friendship messages.
All of the guests were treated to “Pinoy BBQ” and deep fried chicken specially prepared by Delikase, turon (banana spring roll with jackfruit), puto (Filipino steamed rice cake), sago at gulaman (tapioca pearls and black jelly), and Filipino-style hotdogs.
Cebu Pacific, the airline partner of the Philippine Embassy, gave away several freebies for guests to bring home and everyone went home with their own Cebu Pacific Smile Magazine and luggage tag.
The ANU International Relations Society, members of the ANU Filipino Association, the Filipino community and Canberra residents had a chance to have more intimate discussions with Francis to learn more about his advocacy while enjoying the Filipino delicacies.
Francis was in Australia to participate in DESIGN Canberra’s 2016 festival as a featured international artist. His visit adds Canberra to many cities where Francis has shown his work including London, New York, Paris, Tokyo, Singapore and Bangkok. Francis’ shop front indoor art installation for #DESIGNCanberra can be seen in Garema Centre, SLP 5670, Part Ground Floor.
The event was made possible by Cebu Pacific, Philippine Tours, Youth for a Livable Cebu, and Delikase Filipino Cuisine. END
