Emma Pritchard
The South Grafton High School auditorium was transformed into a colourful and cultural display of unity, love, and friendship over the weekend as close to 200 guests joined members of the Clarence Valley Filipino-Australian Community Club Inc to proudly celebrate the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day.
The annual event commemorates the declaration of Philippine independence from Spain on June 12, 1898.
After being part of the Spanish colony for more than 300 years, Filipino revolutionaries surrounded the capital city of Manila after the Americans had earlier defeated the Spanish fleet, with leader Emilio Aguinaldo declaring the Philippines as independent.
While the celebrations were unable to go ahead on June 12 this year, guests were graciously invited to sample mouth-watering Philippine dishes and listen to traditional music while singers and dancers performed on stage.
As she warmly welcomed attendees, MC Nancy Crook said the day was a fantastic opportunity to see and experience the best the Philippines have to offer without boarding a plane to Manila.
“We are proud to see so many of you here today, please have fun and enjoy yourselves,” she said.
President of the Clarence Valley Filipino-Australian Community Club Inc Gresilda Alban Elliot also spoke humbly as she delivered her welcome address, and commented on how wonderful it was to see so many people come together to join in the celebrations.
Special guests included Clarence Valley Council (CVC) Mayor Ian Tiley, and councillors Karen Toms, Debrah Novak, and Allison Whaites, who jovially chatted with members of the Clarence Valley Filipino-Australian Community Club Inc throughout the day.
Describing the event as a wonderful celebration, Mayor Tiley said he was humbled to be invited, adding he wouldn’t have missed the occasion for anything.
“This event is a great event to come along to each year,” he said.
Councillor Toms was also invited to give an inspirational talk during the afternoon, touching on the importance of community involvement, in Australia and in the Philippines, in an effort to help reduce the number of children currently living in poverty in both countries.
Later in the afternoon, costume and Sinulog dance competitions were held for children in attendance, with prizes awarded for the most colourful and creative outfits and most impressive dance moves demonstrated on the floor.
The celebrations concluded with a special cake cutting ceremony in honour of the event.
Members of the Clarence Valley Filipino-Australian Community Club Inc are already looking forward to celebrating the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day in 2024.