An evening for Angat Buhay, the benefit dinner that took place last 8th of September, at Novotel Parramatta, was an absolute success. With a sold-out crowd filling the 260-seat capacity and over 60 volunteers across six committees contributing their time, talent, and treasure, the event was nothing short of memorable.
Celebrating Community and Commitment
The event celebrated the unwavering commitment of Angat Buhay to our marginalised kababayans, harnessing the bayanihan spirit of the Filipino community in Sydney. Organised by TLR Australia (Tungo sa Liwanag at Reporma), Migrante NSW, and The Silent Majority Australia, the dinner aimed to introduce Angat Buhay and raise funds to support its advocacies among Filipino Australians.
It was truly a night to remember, filled with love, passion, generosity, and inspiration. The atmosphere was electric, with everyone buzzing with excitement and positivity.
An Inspiring Speech from FVP Leni Robredo
Former VP Leni Robredo’s integrity, intelligence, and charisma were undeniably evident as she took the stage to speak about Angat Buhay’s beginnings, goals, achievements, and struggles. Her speech resonated deeply with the audience, especially when she shared her aspiration: to be proud to call herself a politician.
“For most of those present that evening,” one attendee shared, “one of the most rousing and exhilarating points in her speech was her call for us all to set personal aspirations for the Philippines, even if we now call Australia home.”
A Call to Action
Leni Robredo’s challenge was clear: no matter where we are, we can all contribute to a brighter future for the Philippines. That night, everyone left the event inspired and motivated to continue supporting the Philippines in any way possible. Whether sharing expertise and experiences gained in Australia or simply refusing to give up hope, the message was clear: our efforts matter.
From a conversation with a passionate volunteer: “I never truly cared about Philippine politics before the last Presidential elections—after all, the country seemed hopeless. But because of FVP Leni Robredo, I finally saw the possibility of a better Philippines. Even though the chances were slim, we fought for that hope, and we will keep fighting for it! Thank you, VP Leni, the epitome of ‘Liwanag sa Dilim.'”
A Community United in Hope
Without a doubt, every person who attended the Angat Buhay benefit dinner went home filled with a renewed sense of purpose and connection. It was a night that demonstrated the power of community, the strength of bayanihan, and the unwavering hope for a better Philippines.
View photos by Skip Tan & Jules Rojo
