PRESS RELEASE
Philippine Embassy, Canberra
1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*
Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell keynotes PH Independence Day Commemoration
27 June 2024, CANBERRA – Special Minister of State and Minister for Trade and Tourism Senator the Hon Don Farrell delivered the keynote remarks at the reception hosted by Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen De La Vega to commemorate the 126th anniversary of the declaration of the independence of the Philippines on 25 June at Hotel Realm in Canberra.
Minister Farrell congratulated the Ambassador and recalled the visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to Australia earlier this year. He committed to strengthen trade and tourism relations of the two countries and said that Australia would like to participate in the Philippines’ economic success.
Mr. David Smith MP also delivered remarks and spoke of the shared history and deep bonds of friendship of the Philippines and Australia including in the second world war. He said that the two countries have established rich bilateral relations with extensive people to people connections.
In her remarks, Ambassador De La Vega said, “The strength of our democracy, our commitment to regional peace and security and the resilience of our people -- in the midst of intense challenges have never been evident as they are today. The Philippines, founded on the heroism and patriotism of our forebears and steadfast in the primacy of international law, will forge ahead in upholding our sovereignty and in realizing our development agenda.”
Members of Parliament and government officials attended the reception as well as representatives from the diplomatic corps, international organizations, business and the think tank community. The guests included Mr. Rowan Ramsey MP, Vice-Chair of the Australia Philippines Parliamentary Group, Mr. Steve Georganas MP, Ms. Maria Vamvakinou MP, Ms. Cassandra Fernando MP, Ms. Michelle Landry MP, and Ms. Melissa McIntosh MP.
Filipino cadets at the Australian Defence Force Academy gave a cultural presentation featuring Filipino martial arts, Eskrima, and Bodong, the indigenous peace pact of the Kalinga communities in northern Philippines. The guests were treated to flavors from the Philippines including kinilaw (marinated barramundi in lime chili), lumpiang sariwa (fresh spring roll), ukoy (prawn fritter), sisig empanada (pork pastry), chicken adobo skewer and kalderata chorizo canape (slow-cooked beef). -- END - Photo credit: Angelito Valdez Jr.
