Ambassador Belen F. Anota graced the “Evening of Beauty, Culture and Music” organized by the Philippine Cultural Society (PCS) in Canberra in celebration of the 116th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on 07 June 2014 at the Southern Cross Club, Phillip.

Ambassador Anota congratulated PCS for its twenty-four years of existence in Canberra and successfully organizing PCS’ yearly Independence Day celebrations.

The Ambassador encouraged everyone to continue living the ideals of our heroes for lasting peace, stability and prosperity of our country, as we jointly celebrate the 116th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence and the 150th Birth Anniversary of Apolinario Mabini.

She emphasized the steadfast and strong people-to-people links between the Philippines and Australia, and through socio-cultural events like this, the relationship between our two nations and its peoples is further fostered and strengthened.

She also took the opportunity to thank kababayans who attended the Independence Day Mass on 01 June and encouraged all those who are eligible to register as overseas voters to register until 15 October 2015 for the 2016 Presidential elections. She also announced the arrival of the Archbishop of Manila, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle in Sydney on 01-03 August and encouraged everyone to participate in the Archbishop’s various public activities.

The celebration was made colorful and joyful through various cultural performances of the PCS’ members and their families and was highlighted by the selection of the “Jr. Philippine Independence 2014” won by 10-year old Isabella Gloria.

Also in attendance with the Ambassador were Second Secretary Grace Anne Bulos and her husband Joel, Labour Attache Rodolfo Sabulao and wife Esther and other Embassy personnel and friends.