18 August 2023, NEW SOUTH WALES – Philippine Ambassador to Australia, H.E. Ma. Hellen De La Vega, together with Consul General Charmaine Aviquivil of the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney, joined the 31st Anniversary celebration of the Philippine Australian Medical Association Inc., (PAMA) in Northwest Sydney. The event was attended by more than 200 New South Wales-based Filipino Australian medical practitioners.

In her remarks, Ambassador De La Vega underscored the importance of the work of doctors, scientists and diplomats in promoting peace and camaraderie by building capacity and international cooperation on public health and other health security challenges.

PAMA started as a small group of Filipino doctors working together to navigate pathways to practice their profession in Australia. Today, its membership includes 100 general practitioners and 15 medical specialist members. They conduct regular medical missions in the Philippines and the next mission will be held on 17-23 February 2024 in Romblon. - END