PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

29 November 2025, SYDNEY – Ambassador Antonio Morales and Consul General Charmaine Aviquivil joined the Filipino Community in the annual Philippine Christmas Festival held on 29 November 2025 at Tumbalong Park. Organized by the Philippine Community Council of New South Wales (PCC-NSW) in collaboration with the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney, the event drew thousands of attendees who came to enjoy Filipino food, music, dance, festive tradition and the Filipino Christmas spirit in the heart of the city.

The celebration was graced by Federal and senior officials from the New South Wales Government and local government. Among the distinguished guests were Hon. Stephen Bali MP, State Member for Blacktown; Mr. Robert Kok, Councillor for Sydney representing Lord Mayor Clover Moore; Ms. Dorothy Del Villar, Councillor for Blacktown; Ms. Karissa Subedi, Councillor for Wagga Wagga; and Ms. Barbara Ward, Councillor for Ku-ring-gai.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Morales expressed appreciation to the Government of New South Wales for its continued support to the more than 152,000 members of the Filipino community across the state. He underscored the spirit of togetherness that defines the Filipino Christmas season, known as the longest in the world, and highlighted the strong people-to-people links between the Philippines and Australia. Over 252,000 Australians visited the Philippines in 2023–24, supported by expanding flight options offered by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Qantas, and Jetstar.

Ambassador Morales also encouraged the Filipino community to participate in overseas voting registration for the 2028 Philippine National Elections, which opened on 01 December 2025 at the Philippine Embassy in Canberra and the Consulates General in Sydney and Melbourne.

The festival showcased vibrant cultural presentations, traditional dances, musical performances, and colorful costumes that captivated both Filipino and Australian audiences. Stalls offered a wide range of Filipino dishes, snacks, and beverages, while booths displayed Philippine-made products.

Representatives from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Social Security System (SSS) and Pag-IBIG Fund were present to provide services and answer inquiries about contributions, memberships, and benefits.

The Philippine Christmas Festival is one of the largest Filipino cultural events held annually in New South Wales.- END