PRESTONS, NSW – Fifteen individuals will be honoured on Sunday, 10 August 2025, at the upcoming Tribute to Fathers and Mothers event, to be held at Liverpool Catholic Club in Prestons, New South Wales.
Organised by NARRA Co-operative Ltd in partnership with Plaza Filipino Inc., this year’s program carries the theme “Legacy in Action: Celebrating Family, Culture and Future.” The event recognises Filipino-Australian fathers and mothers who have contributed to cultural preservation, community development, and intergenerational engagement.
“These remarkable individuals embody what ‘Legacy in Action’ truly means,” said Marcus Rivera, President of NARRA Co-op. “They’re not just preserving our Filipino heritage; they’re actively creating pathways for future generations to thrive in multicultural Australia.”
This year’s honourees represent diverse fields, including education, local government, youth advocacy, business, spiritual service, and the arts.
The following fathers will be recognised:
- Engramar Sampang Bollas – Leads a community of software engineers supporting non-profit organisations.
- Jess Diaz – Community advocate and local government leader.
- Randy Hipolito – Cultural ambassador and event organiser.
- Eugene Urriza La Compte – Long-time community volunteer.
- Jaime Guadalupe Lui – Business and community supporter.
- Eric Paguio Prevendido – Advocate for cultural preservation.
- Fred Reyes – Involved in spiritual outreach and community care.
Honoured mothers include:
- Mary Ann Alfonso – Educator and youth mentor.
- Lhaurie Gutierrez Borbe – Supporter of youth development programs.
- Dolores Lim Cruz – Contributor to community welfare initiatives.
- Dorothy Ann Baena Del Villar – Public servant and community organiser.
- Leilani Angeles Henson – Promotes cultural understanding through events.
- Liz Mateo Lallana – Active in volunteer leadership.
- Raissa Mae Crease Arayenza – Promotes Filipino arts and cultural programs.
- Thelma Gatlabayan Santos – Advocate for family and community engagement.
“The Tribute is one way we show respect to those who continue to serve with humility and vision,” said Dr. Erwin Claudio, Chairperson of Plaza Filipino Inc. “Their example encourages younger generations to stay connected with their heritage while contributing to broader Australian society.”
The event will feature cultural performances, community recognition, and opportunities for families to celebrate together. It also supports the joint goals of NARRA Co-op and Plaza Filipino, including Project 500—a major fundraising initiative to build the PAACI Cultural Centre, a future hub for Filipino-Australian culture and arts in New South Wales.
Founded in 2013, NARRA Co-operative Ltd promotes Filipino-Australian identity through programs in arts, culture, and community-building. Plaza Filipino Inc., established in 2003, works alongside NARRA in delivering community and cultural programs, including the operation of ACI Central, a shared community space since 2016.
For more information about the Tribute to Fathers and Mothers 2025 or NARRA Co-op initiatives, visit www.narracoop.org.au.
