By Mila Cichello
It was a whimsical idea that was born during a meeting at the Philippine Consulate General office in late October 2022- to hold a Pasko sa Melbourne event in the heart of Melbourne to be organised by volunteers, with no funding, within six weeks. This was no big deal, but it was remarkable because it was a Pasko for a cause.
“Pasko sa Melbourne: Alay sa Marinero was born out of the desire of the Filipino community not only to celebrate the Filipino spirit of Christmas with others but also to give back a bit to a very good cause – the Filipino seafarers. They serve in merchant and cruise ships away from land and their families, some 295,000 of them at any given time, out in the oceans,” as eloquently described by the Philippine Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo.
Consul-General Maria Lourdes Salcedo. PHOTO: philtimes.com.au
On 2 December, Pasko sa Melbourne was held at Stella Maris Seafarers’ Centre (SMSC). Despite the short lead time, the event was sold out, with over 200 people attending on the night.
The event grossed $21,000 from ticket sales, donations and sponsorships. After invoices are paid, all proceeds will go to Stella Maris.
“We are very proud to host this event that the Filipino community has organised to raise awareness of the plight of seafarers and the work of Stella Maris looking after them. Stella Maris is like home to them,” says Seamus Quinn, President of SMSC, in his welcome speech.
Seamus Quinn (President) and Leanne Diano (Manager) of Stella Maris Seararers’ Centre. PHOTO: philtimes.com.au.
“Christmas is a special time for Filipino seafarers, and they are always grateful for the care pack that we give them- it has a phone card to call their families, some toiletries, and a sweet treat,” adds Leanne Diano, Manager of SMSC.
The attendees enjoyed a Filipino lechon dinner. They also signed the Christmas cards for seafarers. Sanghimig Choir and Be Kind Choir led the heartwarming rendition of Filipino carols. The Pilipino Elderly Association of South East Region (PEASER) performed folk dances and salsa dancers Jai and Diane Villagonzalo mesmerised the crowd with their energetic moves! The Escalera Band had everyone up and dancing non-stop until it was time to go home.
PHOTOS: George Gregorio | philtimes.com.au.
