It’s the merry month of June! That time of the year when we in Sydney celebrate Philippine Independence Day more times than they do back home! I can’t help but wonder whether it’s our patriotic duty or simply a need to be seen. It’s the season to shiver in our flimsy barongs and to hobnob with politicians and dignitaries who have come out to play.
After the covid lockdown, people are now gearing up to get out and socialise. Although COVID risks still exist, just three jabs and people are willing to brave the germs, come what may. So community associations seem to be in full swing with the preparations for their respective events – to each its own! Everyone is busy,-busy! Sayas, barong and/or their evening gowns have been pulled out the “bauls”, dusted and are ready for ironing. Hairdresser appointments are on schedule for a dash of orange re-colouring. And of course, weekends have been spent rehearsing those numbers – though one hopes that some would just stick to counting.
And, here’s what’s on offer
June 4: Bathurst Flag Raising Ceremony led by Nenita Weekes.
June 11: The Rhythm of the Philippines cultural presentation at Bowman Hall from 1:30 pm to 3:00pm organised by Jade Cadelina in coordination with Blacktown City Council, The Filipino Language School and Handog Pinoy. Then, in the evening, it’s Chris Pilao and the Australian Philippine Services League’s (APSL) event at Rooty Hill. Also, on the same night is APCO under Jhun Salazar Philippine Independence Day Celebration at St. John’s Bowling Club which promises to include everything and more.
June 12: The PCC-NSW will celebrate independence day at Rosehill with the promise of the usual jaw-dropping “Rigodon” which was initiated in 2000 by then Consul General Cabactulan.
June 13: Swing away with the Kalayaan Golf Club Tournament at Lakeside Golf Club, Camden. Registration at 7 am and tee off at8am. The Amores’ APCO will hold their Freedom Ball at Renaissance Westella Function Centre at Lidcombe in the evening (from 6 pm).
June 18: Philippine Language & Cultural Association of Australia (PLCAA) at St. Mary’s for the flag raising at 10:30 am and reception to follow at the St. Mary’s Band Club at 11:00 am. Philippine Australian Senior Citizens (PASCI Seniors) headed by Jun Relunia will have their Independence Day get-together at Fairfield Community Hall from 10:00 am.
June 19: Campbelltown & Region Filipino Community Council (CRFCC) and the Rizal Park Movement will be holding their flag raising to coincide with the celebration of Dr. Jose Rizal’s birth anniversary. As always, it will be held at the Rizal Park in Campbelltown. I am also sure that the Knights of Rizal will divide themselves to make their appearances at the other Rizal sites.
June 25: Bicol Inc. presents a back-to-back concert with the Sonata Singers at Glenwood community Hub. This is a free event. Also, Filsparc will have a Freedom Game Day at Kevin Betts Stadium for those more active – to include competitions in basketball, Volleyball, Table tennis and Darts. Games kick off at 8:30 am.
June 25: Canberra will be holding its Philippine Independence Celebrations.
There’s something for everyone, whether young or old – from dancing the night away to games and cultural presentations. The cost of tickets for the evening events has skyrocketed from over $90.00 to $100.00 per person. Some are charging up to $150.00 per person. One can only hope that the entertainment provided will bring value for money. Some are even charging One thing for sure – we’re definitely, one, united community!
Source: www.filipin-oz.com
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