Sydney, June 2012 - The Philippine Consulate General in Sydney, in partnership with the Order of the Knights of Rizal (OKOR), Sydney Chapter, commemorated the 151st birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal with two activities.

In the morning of 19 June 2012, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony was held at the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Plaza Ibero-Americana in Sydney. Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis and several Consulate staff joined the officers of the OKOR, led by its Commander, Mr. Cesar Bartolome, Filipino community leaders, and Philippine media representatives at the ceremony.

It is my honor to greet my fellow Filipinos as we celebrate the 114th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence.

Once again, the Filipino people are writing a significant chapter in our history. Like all turning points in this narrative, this chapter is an outcome of collective will, manifested by our desire to fulfill our country's great potential, as exhibited by the ability, creativity, and fortitude of the Filipino. Our patriots embodied these qualities in all of their undertakings, particularly in their greatest enterprise--the formation of this Republic. Today we also take inspiration from our countrymen who demonstrate passion, excellence, and integrity in their chosen fields, thereby carrying on this legacy of solidarity and nationhood in their chosen fields, thereby carrying on this legacy of solidarity and nationhood from our forefathers. As we celebrate our Independence, let it be our duty to reaffirm the values that have shaped and strengthened our nation, and to forge ahead in fulfillment of the destiny envisioned by our heroes.

Let us uphold the spirit of hope and confidence that complements the momentum of change in our time. May we also remain proud of our heritage and diversity, the foundations that distinguish our beloved Philippines. Inspired by the past we now commemorate, we move forward to establish a future that accords with our rightful place in community of nations.

 

(Sgd.) BENIGNO S. AQUINO III

M A N I L A

Commemorating Independence Day reminds us of the courage and struggle of the men and women who paved the way for the birth of our nation. Our ancestors made great sacrifices to witness that day in 1898, when the Philippine flag was raised and the national anthem was played to mark the proclamation of our nation's independence.

One hundred and fourteen years after, we are called to remain united and steadfast to the ideals of freedom and democracy. This year's them, Kalayaan:Pananagutan ng Bayan para sa Tuwid na Daan, prompts us to bear in mind that every Filipino, wherever he or she may be, has a role to play in the nation's development. Our hard-earned independence comes with responsibility to build a prosperous nation founded on truth, justice and equity.

Through good governance, the President is steering the Philippines towards rapid and sustainable economic growth, coupled with an improving quality of life for every Filipino. The Department of Foreign Affairs is one with the President in his pursuit to achieve inclusive growth for the country. In deepening our relations with other countries and engaging regional powers, the Department endeavors to advance national security and secure our territorial integrity, effectively address the needs and welfare of overseas Filipinos, and engage in a vigorous campaign to enhance economic diplomacy.

Love for country and deep faith in the Filipino people gave our heroes strength to fight for independence. As we celebrate Independence Day, may their patriotism inspire Filipinos, here and abroad, to become willing partners and dedicated collaborators of the government in attaining sustained growth and development.

Mabuhay at Maligayang Pagdiriwang ng ating Kalayaan!

 

(Sgd.) ALBERT F. DEL ROSARIO
Secretary of Foreign Affairs

Pasay City

The Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions (CLIS) has launched the 2^nd Nationwide Search for the Happiest Pinoy.

The campaign aims to look for and recognize the most cheerful and optimistic Filipino who has remarkably exhibited resilience amidst life’s constant challenges and who has made a significant impact on the lives of others.

The CLIS has extended the scope of this nationwide search to include overseas Filipinos aged 10 years old and above.

Online forms are available on the CLIS website, www.happiest-pinoy.com. Accomplished forms should be submitted to the CLIS Head Office at 821 A. Spring cor. J.P Rizal St., Makati, on or before 31 July 2012.

Thank you.

Philippine Consulate General
Sydney

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) has extended the deadline for the submission of nominations to the 2012 CFO Presidential Awards from 15 June to 30 June 2012.

All nominations must be submitted to the Consulate on or before 15 June 2012, for the Award Committee's review and subsequent transmittal to CFO.

Thank you.

Philippine Consulate General
Sydney

On 2 June 2012, the month-long celebration in New South Wales, Australia, of the 114th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence kicked off with activities held in the cities of Wagga Wagga and Bathurst.

Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis joined members of the Filipino-Australian community in Wagga Wagga, 458 kilometers southwest of Sydney, in a program featuring cultural presentations, a brief history of Philippine Independence and the Philippine flag, and an oath taking ceremony for those who have availed of the Dual Citizenship program. Present during the event were Member of Parliament for Wagga Wagga Daryl Maguire, Wagga Wagga City Mayor Kerry Pascoe, Temora Shire Councilor Irene Broad and Ms. Belinda Crain, Manager of the Multicultural Council of Wagga Wagga.

Read more: MONTH-LONG COMMEMORATION OF 114th ANNIVERSARY OF THE PROCLAMATION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE STARTS IN NEW SOUTH WALES, AUSTRALIA