Sydney, Australia — The National Affiliation of Respectable and Responsible Associations (NARRA) Co-op and Plaza Filipino have announced this year’s Ambassador for Culture and the Arts Honourees 2025. These outstanding individuals will be celebrated at the Pamana Ball on 2 February 2025, at the Liverpool Catholic Club.
NARRA Co-op is a non-trading cooperative registered under the Co-operatives National Law. It serves as an umbrella organisation for Filipino-Australian associations, promoting unity, cultural heritage, and community development among its members.
The honorees
This year’s honourees represent excellence in their fields and a strong commitment to promoting Filipino heritage and culture. They are:
- Emerita Agostino – Community leader, cultural performer, and charity advocate
- Saira Arias – Advocate for Filipino student communities and cultural initiatives
- Marilou Bautista – Entrepreneur, producer, and advocate for women empowerment
- Annabelle Regalado Borja – Producer, music educator, and leader in multicultural community engagement
- Atty. Jesil Cajes – Lawyer, community leader, and advocate for migrant rights
- Ronna Guzman – Community leader in aged care and multicultural initiatives
- Rose Bolor Lay – Longtime community volunteer and advocate for women’s empowerment
- Shera Tiongan Matias – Lawyer and leader preserving Cordilleran heritage
- Kris Andrea Nepomuceno – Founder of Morena Lifeforce Collective, mental health, and cultural empowerment advocate
- Violeta Perez – Finance and mortgage broker passionate about preserving Filipino heritage
- Warlie Alagao – Artist, voice actor, dancer, and cultural advocate
- Edward Banting – Information specialist and active community contributor
- Erwin Bernarte – Neuroscience nurse, community sports leader, and charity advocate
- Nicasio Curray – Dedicated bus operator and long-serving community volunteer
- Napoleon Guines – Social worker and advocate for community resilience
- Royce Lucero – Community mentor and property development professional
- Joseph Carlo Mendoza Magno – Security entrepreneur and anti-bullying advocate
- Joel Queyquep – Insurance expert and dedicated community volunteer
- Emmanuel Abad Recio – Award-winning chef and cultural ambassador
- John Tantoco – Designer and Director, fostering creativity and cross-cultural connections
Special Hall of Fame Recognition
This year’s event will also include a Hall of Fame Special Recognition, honouring an individual who has made a significant and lasting impact on the Filipino-Australian community. The honouree will be announced during the event.
The Pamana Ball is more than a celebration. It is a key fundraising initiative supporting the establishment of the Australian-Filipino Cultural Centre in Sydney. This centre will provide a dedicated space for preserving Filipino heritage, nurturing artistic talent, and fostering multicultural exchange.
“We are proud to recognise these outstanding individuals whose achievements inspire and uplift our community. This year’s Hall of Fame inductee will be a testament to the enduring legacy of Filipino contributions in Australia,” NARRA Co-op President Fredisinda Buchlak said.
Event Details
- What: Pamana Ball 2025: Ambassador for Culture and the Arts Recognition Night
- When: February 2, 2025 (Doors open at 4:30 PM)
- Where: Liverpool Catholic Club, Prestons, NSW
Further information about NARRA Co-op and its projects can be found at www.narracoop.org.au.
