The Filipino community in Melbourne gathered on 8 December 2024 for the annual “Pasko sa Melbourne: Joy to the World” event at the Queen Victoria Market. Distinguished guests included Ryan Bachelor MP, Sheena Watt MP, Councillor Philip Le Liu of the City of Melbourne, Councillor Jennifer Dizon of the City of Casey, Commissioner Silvia Renda of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Abiola Akinbiyi Board Director of the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria and Philippine Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo, who played a significant role in ensuring the celebration’s success.
A significant highlight of the event was the presence of the newly appointed Philippine Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Antonio Morales, who delivered the opening speech emphasising the strong bond between the Philippines and Australia. “As the fifth largest migrant group in Australia, the Filipino community plays an important role in the social and economic fabric of this nation, making the Filipino community a cornerstone of our bilateral relations,” he shared as he acknowledged the works of those who came before him.
The event also recognised the outstanding contributions of two remarkable individuals: Arvin Garcia and Maria Lourdes “Lulu” Lorenzo. Arvin, a nurse by profession and a self-taught baker, won The Great Australian Bake Off. He was honoured for his creative representation of Filipino cuisine and culture on the said Australian television competition. Lulu, a dedicated community leader, was acknowledged for her tireless efforts in supporting Filipino seniors and those in need and for her work in representing the community in multiple capacities.
There were non-stop cultural performances throughout the day, varying from traditional folk dances to contemporary music and Christmas medleys. And from the many artists and volunteers, a martial arts demonstration, and a couple of fashion runways were also presented to the attendees. Food stalls offered a taste of Filipino cuisine for everyone to enjoy as interactive sessions like The Clown Hub had engaging activities for all ages. Uling: The Charcoal Project hosted a Christmas feast for VIPs and guests. A pop-up bar showcased a range of flavours with imported craft spirits from 7000 Islands.
Organised by The Empowered Australian Multicultural Society Inc. (TEAMS), with support from the Filipino-Australian Student Council of Victoria (FASTCO) and the Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne, the event not only honoured individual excellence but also reinforced the strong bonds within the Filipino-Australian community.
