As the year comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the vibrant Filipino community and the remarkable events that have taken place. From cultural celebrations and festivals to community recognition and entrepreneurial showcases, 2023 has been filled with pride and achievements. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights that have shaped our community.
Cultural Celebrations and Festivals
The year kicked off with numerous Sto Niño Festival (Sinulog) celebrations across the country. In addition to many religious festivals, Filipino communities also organised historical revisitations during the 125th Philippine Independence Day celebration with large events like Bayanihan Festival in Brisbane and Kalayaan Festival in Adelaide.
Community Unity and Collaboration
The 125th Philippine Independence Day celebration in Victoria showcased the strength and cultural richness of the Filipino community through collaborative efforts and harmony. This year, we consolidated celebrations on a single day. The Grand FilCom Gala Night at the Palladium in Crown Melbourne brought together community leaders, business owners, diplomats and government representatives under the theme “Freedom, Future, History”. Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo highlighted the enduring friendship between the Philippines and Australia. Further festivities unfolded at Springvale Town Hall during the Family Open Day and the Traditional Flag Ceremony at Federation Square.
Advancements in Filipino Culture
Still, regarding Philippine history, the Knights of Rizal continued their mission, chartering three new chapters in Victoria: Melbourne Entrepreneur Chapter, Melbourne West Chapter, and Melbourne South East Chapter. The Kababaihang Rizalista Inc. also officially chartered KRI Victoria Chapter, marking a milestone in its mission to empower and inspire women to be proud of their country and command respect.
Culinary Excellence and Recognition
The Filipino Food Revolution truly arrived in Australia this year with countless Filipino representations in food festivals, including but not limited to FiloFomoFest in Sydney, Bendigo StreetFood Festival and Melbourne Food and Wine Festival’s Seafood Stars & Stories at Seafarers. It cannot be denied that Filipinos are finding their way to everyone’s hearts through their stomachs, as evidenced by the opening of 10 Filipino restaurants in Melbourne alone. Earlier this year, the Filipino Chefs Association of Victoria Incorporated was formed, aiming to elevate Filipino food through collaboration and camaraderie, highlighted by an exclusive seven-course degustation launch.
In a culinary triumph, Filipino chefs Princess Anne Uy, Lyn Richardson and Eloisa Villanueva Nanini championed at the World Food Championships Australia under BBQ, Seafood and Cheese categories. Meanwhile, restaurant Serai, led by Chef Ross Magnaye, was honoured as the Best New Restaurant in Australia 2024 by Gourmet Traveller. Known for its wood-fired Filipino dishes, Serai stood out among nine finalists. This recent accolade reinforces Serai’s position as a culinary gem as celebrity chefs such as Gordon Ramsey and Jamie Oliver also visited the place.
Empowering Entrepreneurs
Another highlight for Filipinos has been the growing number of business expos that gave platforms for small business owners to showcase their products and services, including Sari Sari Success and #Pinoytrepreneurs in Victoria. Communities such as these are growing to support and guide entrepreneurs in their journey while fostering collaboration in the community.
Women in Sports and Community Support
2023 was pivotal for women in sport, with the Philippine National Women’s Football Team, aka Filipinas, playing in Australia for the Olympic Qualifiers in Perth following their historic run in the FIFA World Cup. The Philippines National Women’s Basketball Team, aka Gilas Pilipinas Women, supported an initiative of Filipinas in Sport during a week-long engagement in Victoria in collaboration with the Australian Filipino Community Services before participating in the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup held in Sydney.
Anniversaries and Recognitions
2023 also marked significant anniversaries for organisations—from Excelsis’ 10th, Young Generation’s silver, PAFI, PCSFFI, UFEGI and PEASER’s 30th, to The Philippine Times’ 33rd and more! A year’s worth of time makes for many possibilities. This year, PhilTimes was awarded Advocate of the Year, and publisher Alice Nicolas the Business Mentor of the Year by TaxSmart Cafe during the Best of the Best Awards. With over three decades of service, PhilTimes also received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne during the Philippine Independence Day celebration.
A Spotlight on Filipino Talent in the Arts
Perhaps, one of the most unforgettable highlights of 2023 was the participation of 14 Filipino cast members in the acclaimed musical “Miss Saigon,” which toured in Sydney and Melbourne. Their incredible talent and dedication to the arts brought a piece of Filipino culture and excellence to the Australian stage.
Looking to the Future
Looking ahead, the Filipino community will continue to make strides in various fields, from entrepreneurship and community advocacy to arts and culture. The collective efforts and unwavering dedication of individuals and organisations will pave the way for a brighter future, fostering a strong sense of pride among Filipino Australians.
The year 2023 has been a testament to the Filipino community’s ability to come together, celebrate their achievements and promote their culture and heritage. As we bid farewell to this remarkable time and welcome 2024, let us carry the Filipino spirit into the future, ensuring that the Filipino community in Australia continues to thrive and make a positive impact.
