The Alliance of Philippine Community Organisations (APCO) led by Dr Ed Escultura held a successful celebration of the 123rd Philippine Independence and the 75th Anniversary of Philippine Australian Bilateral Relations. The event was unique in that it was free for the community to attend and enjoy a meaningful celebration. It was held in covered outdoor premises in the Auburn Community Picnic Area.
The celebration was attended by state and local government officials, community leaders and media members. Consul Melanie Diano was in attendance and also represented the Consul General Ezzedin Tago. Other officials included: Steve Christou, Cr & Mayor of Cumberland City Council; Hon Lynda Voltz, member for Auburn since 2019 and also representing Jodi McKay former Leader of the Opposition; Hon. Kevin Connolly attended as member for Riverstone and representing the NSW Premier Hon Gladys Berjeklian and the new Minister for Multiculturalism Hon Natalie Ward; Hon. Julia Finn, served at Councillor and Lord Mayor of the former Parramatta City Council and was elected as the member for Granville at the 2015 NSW State Election. The Premier also sent a recorded message for the community.
The event started with the parade of colours by the officers and advisers of APCO, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem led by Jojo Sebastian and the Australian National Anthem led by Sophie Dalisay. This was followed by Invocation by Carmen Fraser, APCO Junior VP and the welcome remarks by APCO President Dr Escultura.
The co-hosts of the event were Violi Calvert (Radio Tagumpay), Edinel Magtibay Dearden(SBS Filipino Radio) and Albert Prias (APCO, NARRA and FLAGCOM officer), with Charles Chan (APCO Senior VP and Radio Bayanihan host) as the Floor Director. Altogether they got the proceedings to progress smoothly.
In addition to the speeches by the officials, the community enjoyed song performances by: Jojo Sebastian, Abrienne Macari, Christopher Booth, Gilda Pagaduan, GS Duo (Nathaniel Gale and Mirasol Loyaga), Samantha Aguala, Juliana Carvajal, Ballina Gee, Alter Ego, Queenie, Grace Church Choir members (Grace and Becky), Kiko Ruiz, Porsha Pepic, three young girls - Chloe Lofthouse, Maria Hall and Jaime Rose Griffiths, Sandra Tita & Jerson Cruz, Annie Marquez ; dancing by FDG & CFWSG Dancers; Soul Fuel and the PASA Sydney Dancers, and fashion show by Belle Epoque Fashion Review of Direk Bob Gusi.
The attendees also enjoyed sumptuous and bountiful lunch, and a nice Souvenir Programme covered by Cora Bojarski.
Senior VP Charles Chan gave the closing remarks thanking all for their attendance and contribution to make the event successful.
Several attendees won various prizes from raffle draws. The event also raised some funds to provide assistance in the fight against COVID 19 in the Philippines. The happy and festive celebration started at 10am and ended at 4pm, with everyone looking happy and giving positive feedback about the event.
(Images by Bob Reyes. More photos are on APCO FB page:
(2) APCO - Alliance of Philippine Community Organisations | Facebook )