The Filipino community will flock to the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds this 24-25 November 2012 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Philippine Fiesta. The two-day festivity, the biggest annual celebration of Filipinos in Victoria, will be from 9am to 10pm on Saturday and from 9am to 7pm on Sunday.
Despite a grand celebration, the Philippine Fiesta of Victoria Inc. Management Committee headed by Ross Manuel, was criticised for various issues such as the selling of the part of the Philippine property in Laverton and the dwindling money of the PFVI.
This year’s theme, “Bukas-Bisig” (Open Arms or Welcome) aptly describes the value of Filipino hospitality. “Filipinos are well-known for their utmost generosity and congeniality. They welcome everyone with open arms to their homes or in their community with or without special occasions,” said Manny Asuncion, Public Relations Officer of the PFVI.
Filipino singer Dulce (Maria Teresa Abellare Cruzata in real life) will perform during the Fiesta. Dubbed as “Asia’s Diva”, Dulce became a household name for her hit song “Ako Ang Nasawi, Ako ang Nagwagi”.
Other interstate talents who will also perform are: Ann-Maree Bowdler, Daniel Ross,
Melanie Cristine Balagtas, Maria Paz Barcenas, and Michelle Angelica Smith.
There will be a photo exhibit and a video presentation in cooperation with the Filipino Camera Club of Melbourne and Dulaang Bayan Melbourne Inc. focusing on the events and people that helped shaped the 30 years of Philippine Fiesta.
Asuncion said a diorama by Mr Don Belardo depicting a historical event in the Philippines will be installed, along with native costumes, Filipino exquisite handicrafts, and local products. The Don Bosco Association Inc. will also hold Filipino popular games while wrestling bouts will be seen live.
Asuncion said there will be a combined Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo in cooperation with the Filipino Community Organization of Lara (FILCOL). Former Miss and Mrs Philippine Fiesta Beauty Quest winners will participate.
The Talent Night of the Miss and Mrs Philippine Fiesta of Victoria will be held on Saturday, 24 November so Fiesta revellers can watch the show.
There will be the traditional Fiesta parade headed by the Philippine Fiesta of Victoria Inc. Management Committee and participated in by the officers and members of the Filipino Community organisations in Victoria. The ati-atihan group of the Samahan ng mga Pilipino Australian sa Gippsland (SPAG) will add colour and vibe to the annual parade.
