On May 29, 2021 the Fil-Aus community in Sydney and those in other parts of the world are in for a double online treats. In the morning, they are able to watch and experience vicariously the celebration of Flores de Mayo and later in the afternoon, they can stream the virtual concert celebrating the 75th anniversary of Philippine-Australian Bilateral Relations.
Flores de Mayo Celebration
The Philippines has a tradition of celebrating "fiesta" or festivals right through the year. The fiestas are generally held to celebrate the date of birth of the patron saints of the particular provinces and cities. These celebrations are usually started with a procession of the images of the patron saints, followed by a Mass in church, a community get together where a program of entertainment is showcased, and households offer lunches to share.
For the month of May, Flores de Mayo (Spanish terms for 'flowers of May') is celebrated in most places in honour of the Christianity's queen and mother, Mary. On May 29, an online Flores de Mayo celebration is brought to Filipinos and their friends in all parts of the world through the collaboration of the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Tourism and the National Commission of Culture & Arts.
The live event will be shown at 10am (Philippine time) or 12 noon (Sydney time).
75th Anniversary of Philippine-Australian Bilateral Relations Concer
Also happening in the month of May, messages from various dignitaries, community leaders and media members are featured on the FB page of the Philippine Consulate General as part of the celebration of the 75th anniversary of Philippine-Australian bilateral relations.
At 6pm Sydney time on the same day, May 29, a virtual concert will be the culmination of this celebration. The concert will be Directed by Chi De Jesus and to be hosted by Michelle Baltazar. There will be performances by the Sydney Sonata singers, Philippine Language and Cultural Association of Australia, Novy Bereber Dance Troupe and Miguel Castro.
Both these two events will be streamed on the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney Facebook page: (5) Philippine Consulate General in Sydney NSW | Facebook.Those who missed the live streaming can view at a later time the videos which will be posted on the Consulate's page.
Images: Bob Reyes