Jose Relunia’s 25 years of service to the Filipino-Australian community of New South Wales was recognised at the recent Australia Day celebrations.
Relunia also widely known in the community as Jun, received two distinguished awards, namely, Penrith City Council 2020 Australia Day Award (Local Appreciation) and Australia Day Honours Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in the General Division.
The Order of Australia is an order of chivalry established on 14 February 1975 by Queen Elizabeth II to recognise ones’ achievement or meritorious service. The Medal of the Order of Australia is the highest award given for service and achievement worthy of particular recognition in Australia.
Relunia said that he was honoured, happy and humbled for receiving these awards.
“This honour will be an inspiration for me to do more for the Filipino Australian community and mainstream multicultural community.”
Relunia is widely known for his involvement with The Australian Devotees of Our Lady of Penafrancia and the Philippine Australian Society for Senior Citizens, Inc.
His extensive leadership and active participation are highlighted throughout the community in New South Wales.
Relunia has played an important role in supporting newly-arrived migrants, fostering inclusion and promoting Philippine culture.
Even after retirement, Relunia continues to dedicate his time for his faith and the community by volunteering for the Filipino Chaplaincy, Diocese of Parramatta, Liturgical Committee, St. Nicholas of Myra Parish, Penrith and as a columnist for the Philippine Community Herald newspaper.
He also held the position of President of Australian Devotees of Our Lady of Penafrancia in 2005-2016.
Relunia has held several positions in the Filipino community including as President of Philippine Australian Society for Senior Citizens, since 2008, Founding Member of Philippine Christmas (Pasko) Festival, since 2016, President of Philippine Community Council of New South Wales (2014-2015), member of New South Wales Filipino Ministerial Consultative Committee (2014-2015), Vice-Chair of Filipino Community Cooperative (2014) and Former President of Western Sydney Fil-Oz Association (1997-1998).
He is also actively involved in the multicultural community being a member of Multicultural Working Party, Penrith City Council, since 2017.
Since 2017, Relunia holds the position of Peace Program Advisor, Community Engagement – Philippines, United Nations Association of Australia.
