Filos up for grandest Filipino fiesta
The Philippine Fiesta Committee led by Ross Manuel is now in the thick of preparations for the 2011 Philippine Fiesta of Victoria to be held on 26-27 November 2011 at the Melbourne Showgrounds. The Committee promises to make the event the most exciting, largest gathering and the best ever fiesta celebration. Food, drinks, entertainment and cultural presentations will make the more than 10,000 Filipinos and their families and friends get value for their money.
The committee is now holding its meetings nearly every week at the Philippine Community Centre in Laverton to discuss items about the celebration such as stalls, program, safety and security, and parking. Now on its 29th year, the Fiesta theme for this year focuses on “Ambagan” (sharing one’s contribution).
The Committee members, now on their last term, said they have decided to extend the program for both days until 10pm with lots of dancing at night. The Committee told The Philippine Times that rain or shine, participants and stall holders would not be affected as the Committee made sure that the main stage and all stalls are to be accommodated under one roof in the massive Grand Pavilion. The Committee even showed The Philippine Times the arrangement of stalls for easy access and proper business exposure and the stage set-up for entertainers. There will also be an area for kids’ rides and games.
Entrance fee to increase
Due to the 10% increase in the hiring of the Showground, the entrance fee will also increase. The pre-paid ticket will have the same old rate but those paying on the day will pay the following: Adults, $12; concession and Children (6 –12 years old), $7; Family (2 adult and 2 kids), $30. Kids 5 years old and below are free. The entrance fee for pre-paid tickets are: Adult, $10; concession and children, $5; Family, $25. Tickets are now available in most Filipino shops and eateries. Revellers can also avail of a $1 raffle ticket for prizes worth over $5,000.
Business owners invited
Manuel is encouraging business owners to showcase their goods and services or promote merchandise by hiring a stall. Food enthusiasts are also encouraged to rent a stall to sell dry goods or cooked food during the two-day fiesta. The food court is the most visited area during the Fiesta hence it is a good money-making venture for food vendors.
The annual souvenir program can also be a good source of promotion for business-minded individuals. The Committee is inviting advertisers and sponsors to network with the Filipino-Australian market. The souvenir program also helps the candidates raise funds for the construction of a Philippine house.
Celebration highlights
Some of the highlights of the celebration include the live appearance of famous artists from the Philippines, the availability of the best Filipino cuisine, the dance and musical extravaganzas, the Sinulog, Ati-atihan and other cultural talents, and fashion parade and shows of the 2011 Miss and Mrs Philippine Fiesta candidates. The Beauty Quest coronation night will be on 3rd December 2011 at La Mirage Reception in Somerton.
For enquiries, please contact the following: Ross Manuel (Overall Chairman), mobile 0411-581-044; Liz Honey (PRO, Sponsorships and Two-day Program), mobile 0412-191-577; Mario Dumrigue (Food and Non-food stall rentals), mobile 0403-017-113; Alex Ordona (Souvenir program and advertising), mobile 0422-445-285.
For further details, visit the Fiesta website: www.philfiesta.com.
