The Australia Philippines Services League will join the 25 April Anzac Day parade in Sydney, its members marching shoulder to shoulder with war veterans, retired and serving troops, and proudly flying the Philippine flag alongside those of Allied forces.
Led by Supreme Commander Col Chris Pilao (ret.), the APSL has been part of the Anzac Day commemorative celebrations since 2005, with sponsorship, support and encouragement from Rooty Hill RSL.
Col.Pilao currently sits on the Rooty Hill RSL Board, the first elected director of Filipino ancestry in Australia’s largest RSL club, giving the Filipino community presence in a mainstream organisation.
In keeping with tradition, APSL will participate in the pre-Anzac Day march of Rooty Hill RSL 21 April, Col Pilao said.
On Anzac Day, APSL will join the dawn service at Pinegrove Memorial Park, Minchinbury before proceeding to the parade in Sydney’s CBD.
It is important that Filipino troops are represented in activities such as the Anzac Day parade as it recognises the valour, sacrifice and heroic deeds of men and women in uniform, as well as thank their families for their devotion, according to Col. Pilao.
Citing previous marches, Col Pilao said Filipinos watching the parade in the city have cheered the APSL, their sense of pride noted and appreciated.
“We encourage members of the Filipino community to watch the televised broadcast of the parade at home, or have a day out in the city,” invited Col Pilao, adding that the Philippine contingent comes after the troops of The Netherlands in alphabetical order.
APSL comprises veterans, former and active service personnel of military forces, and their descendants.
Further information about APSL and membership matters may be directed to Col. Pilao, mobile +614 0276 3113.