Echuca, Victoria – Philippine Consul General (PCG) to Melbourne, Maria Lourdes M. Salcedo, headed the consular mission to Regional Victoria, focusing on fostering relationships and exploring opportunities for collaboration between the Philippines and local communities.
Accompanied by Consul Jan Sherwin P. Wenceslao and members of the Filipino community in Echuca, including Fr. Novelito Lim of St. Mary’s Parish, Ms Lailani Gulinao-Dorupa from Bupa Aged Care, and community representatives Ms Shirley Armstrong and Ms Annie Taylor, Consul General Salcedo met with Cr Rob Amos, Echuca Ward Councilor and Mayor of Campaspe Shire Council.
During the meeting, Salcedo expressed her gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to the Filipino diaspora in Echuca. She also discussed potential opportunities for trade, investment, and employment between the Philippines and Campaspe Shire. The discussions focused on key industries such as healthcare, food production, and tourism, highlighting the mutual benefits of strengthened ties.
From 28 to 30 June 2024, Consul General Salcedo is on a consular mission in Regional Victoria to provide essential consular services in Pyramid Hill and surrounding areas. This mission includes meetings with local officials and engagement with the Filipino community to address their needs and concerns.
Supporting Filipino Healthcare Professionals
Consul General Salcedo also visited Bupa Aged Care in Echuca, where she met with Filipino staff, led by General Manager Ms. Lailani Gulinao-Dorupa. The Filipino community plays a vital role in the healthcare and aged care sectors at Bupa Echuca, with their numbers growing from an initial three to now ten Filipino nurses and approximately 30 Filipino personnel, supporting a 120-bed facility.
Consul General Salcedo expressed her admiration and support for the Filipino nurses and aged care professionals in Victoria. She emphasised the contributions of the Filipino community to the healthcare sector and highlighted the potential for increased opportunities and investments between the Philippines and Australia in healthcare and aged care.
The consular mission underscored the importance of the Filipino community in the region and the potential for further strengthening ties between the Philippines and Australia through collaborative efforts in various sectors.
The PCG team will be in Pyramid Hill on 30 June for a mobile consular mission.
