The Australia Philippines Services League (APSL) will mark June 12 with a dinner show at West HQ Rooty Hill, hosting a major community event for over 300 guests post NSW lockdown, and observing safety measures in place.
Celebrated among Filipino communities worldwide, June 12 marks the Philippines’ Independence Day, or Araw ng Kalayaan in the Filipino language.
APSL president Col. Cresencio Pilao (Ret) said that since APSL activities were put on hold during the pandemic, celebrating the 123rd Philippine Independence Day in spectacular fashion pays tribute to the community’s resilience following the sudden change in their circumstances due to COVID-19.
“We think of coming days; circumstances can only get better, especially as individuals are being vaccinated,” Col. Pilao said.
Stage performer Dexter Villahermosa leads the line-up of talented entertainers and their much-loved repertoire of classical and popular music.
June 12 highlights the moment when then Philippine President General Emilio Aguinaldo raised the Philippine flag for the first time from the balcony of his home in Kawit, Cavite and declared independence of the Philippines from Spanish rule in 1898.
For Filipino-Australians, 2021 also marks 75 years of Australia-Philippines diplomatic ties, forged on 22 May 1946.