Emma Pritchard

More than 160 people gathered in the South Grafton High School auditorium on June 12 to join the Clarence Valley Filipino-Australian Community Club Inc as they celebrated the 124th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day.

A bright and vibrant display of cultural pride, love, unity and friendship, the event commemorated the declaration of Philippine independence from Spain in 1898, after being part of the Spanish colony for over 300 years.

Guests were invited to try delicious Philippine dishes and listen to traditional music while watching cultural dancing and a fun-filled fashion parade.

Among the attendees this year were Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan and his wife Karen, and Clarence Valley Council (CVC) Mayor Ian Tiley.

Describing the event as a great celebration and wonderful opportunity to meet with and acknowledge the members of the Clarence Valley Filipino-Australian Community Club Inc, Mr Hogan said it was wonderful to be a part of the festivities over the weekend.

Speaking with the Clarence Valley Independent following the event, Publicity Officer for the Clarence Valley Filipino-Australian Community Club Inc Jeanet Bodimeade expressed her delight after seeing such a large number of people attend and join in the celebrations, with numbers up by more than 40 from last year’s event.

“It was good to see so many come along,” she said, adding members are already looking forward to inviting the community to the 125th Philippine Independence Day celebrations in 2023.