27 June 2016 – The Philippine Embassy in Canberra commemorated the 118th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on June 17 at the National Gallery of Australia.
In her remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Australia Minda Calaguian-Cruz recalled with gratitude the “the men and women upon whose conviction and fortitude we founded a nation similarly imbued with a steadfast allegiance to freedom and the responsibilities that come with its upholding.”
Ambassador Calaguian-Cruz, in recognition of the 70th Anniversary of the Establishment of Philippine-Australia relations, said that the friendship between the Philippines and Australia has broadened and deepened, matured and expanded into diverse areas of cooperation covering political, economic, socio-cultural and development fields. She assured everyone that the Philippines remains committed to bring Philippine-Australia relations to greater heights in the years to come.
The more than 200 guests were serenaded by Canberra’s own Rondanihan and treated to Filipino spirits including Don Papa Rum, a premium Filipino Rum, during the reception. In addition, each and every guest received a special “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” souvenir bag which included Filipino products by Oishi, Mama Sita’s Mixes and Sauces, 7D Mangoes, and Cocoa Monster.
To complete the celebration, world-renowned Bayanihan, the National Folk Dance Company of the Philippines, presented an outstanding set of Filipino folkdances at the James O’Fairfax Theater of the National Gallery of Australia. Bayanihan’s first performance in Canberra once again made the Philippine proud through its captivating and beautiful rendition of Philippine dance traditions which left the audience captivated and in awe of the rich diversity of Philippine culture and heritage.
Bayanihan’s tour in Australia was made possible by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Philippine Airlines, the Department of Tourism (DOT), Victoria International Container Terminal and Philippine Tours. The Philippine Embassy in Canberra also thanks its donors, Oishi, Mama Sita’s Mixes and Sauces, 7D Mangoes, Don Papa Rum and Cocoa Monster. END
