The Filipino-Australian community in Penrith, New South Wales, came together at St Nicholas of Myra Parish to farewell two key officials from the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney. The event, held on 4 January 2025 and organised by Jun Relunia and the Australian Devotees of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, honoured Vice Consul Frances Louissa C. Cleofas and Cultural Officer Nova de Lara for their service.
Vice Consul Cleofas, who has served for two years, is set to return to the Philippines in February. After six years in the role, Cultural Officer Nova de Lara will leave in January. Both officials were recognised for their dedication to promoting Filipino culture and supporting the Filipino-Australian community.
The event included a novena and Mass led by St Nicholas parish priest Fr Joe Manjaly, followed by a lunch and a program featuring speeches, musical performances, and tokens of appreciation for the departing officials.
The gathering highlighted the strong ties within the Filipino-Australian community and the contributions of Vice Consul Cleofas and Cultural Officer de Lara. Their work in promoting Filipino culture and engaging with the Filipino-Australian community has been highly valued.
