By Jun Relunia
SYDNEY – The Philippine Australian Society for Senior Citizens Inc (PASSCI), the first seniors group of Filipino origin to be incorporated in Australia, held a virtual celebration of Mother’s Day as it stays connected while staying at home with its members and the wider community.
The PASSCI Management Committee started the planning of the Virtual Celebration of Mother’s Day 3 weeks ago with their virtual management committee meetings through Messenger group chat.
Brian Lorenz Tribute to Mothers
The virtual celebration started with the release of Brian Lorenz’s video clip to PASSCI Facebook page, the Philippine Community in Australia Facebook Page and other social media. Brian Lorenz who is a popular Filipino-Australian entertainer and loved by the seniors paid tribute to PASSCI members and other seniors with his rendition of the Elvis Presley song “Can’t Help Falling in love”.
Video Message of NSW Acting Minister for Seniors and Multiculturalism Geoff Lee
Next in the program was the video message of NSW Acting Minister for Seniors and Multiculturalism Geoff Lee. He greeted all mothers particularly the Australian Filipino Mothers Happy Mother’s Day. He was glad that we are staying connected virtually in this challenging times. You can watch the video message in the Philippine Community in Australia Facebook page.
Message from Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. de la Vega
The Philippine Ambassador to Australia Ma. Hellen B. de la Vega released also her written Happy Mother’s Day greetings to Filipino Australian Seniors and congratulated the PASSCI 2020 Mothers of the Year. Quoting her message to the seniors “Your selfless efforts to serve and be part of an organization supporting the Filipino Australian Senior Citizens community while nurturing your own families played an important role in creating a responsible and enduring society. I encourage you to continue this life long journey with love and compassion”
The Mother’s Day celebration ended with the presentation to the winners via home delivery of the PASSCI 2020 Mother of the Year Award and the Certificate of Congratulations from Philippine Ambassador Ma. Hellen de la Vega, as seen in the photos of the awardees.
The PASSCI 2020 Mother of the Year Awardees
Ludy Acusa
Mrs Ludy Acusa became a widow at an early age with three young children a daughter and 2 sons. Ludy raised her children on her own. With her perseverance and sacrifices, she managed to send them to college and university where they completed their tertiary education; landed successful careers and have their own families. Ludy is thankful for her blessings especially in having 5 great grandchildren.
Ludy is a member of PASSCI for more than 20 years since the time of one its founders Atty Jose Relunia, Sr.
Lydia Cosio
Mrs Lydia Cosio is married to Dom Cosio and they are blessed with big family -4 children, 9 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Lydia joined PASSCI in the late 90’s, the first association she joined after her husband suffered a stroke in 1995.
Lydia has managed to juggle her time attending to her husband, homemaking, looking after her grandchildren and teaching and performing dances with PASSCI members.
Lydia has a passion for dancing and being with PASSCI gave her the opportunity and inspiration to share her talent with other members.
Lydia is guided by “ I live not for myself but for my family and friends as well”
Lydia Maalat
Prior to coming to Australia, Mrs. Lydia Maalat cared and looked after Enrico, their son and only child. Lydia also managed their sari-sari store while Efren her husband was working overseas in Saudi Arabia. ran
Lydia and her family arrived in Australia in 1996. Lydia kept herself busy caring for their son.
Lydia and her husband Efren joined PASSCI in 2010 and are active in the Seniors network activities in Fairfield.
Lydia is a dotting grandmother to her Apo Sandra Rose.
Lucy Ortiz
Mrs. Lucy Ortiz was a high school teacher for five years in a private school in Pasig before she applied for a carer’s job in Italy in 1984. Lucy met her husband Gaetano in Italy; got married in 1988 and now blessed with 3 kids. Lucy was fulltime mother and wife while the kids were growing up. And during these times, Lucy learned and became fluent in Italian language.
In 2005, the family arrived in Australia to begin a new life. With 2 of her kids now married, Lucy now enjoys her time with 4 grandchildren.
Lucy joined PASSCI in 2015 and is an active member, always assisting in the kitchen. She is a member of the PASSCI Cultural Dancers.
PASSCI is still open for business; staying connected; staying home, staying safe and learning new ways of social media.
