Testimonial Glimpses of PLCAA

• Aida Basto

PLCAA has many annual events aimed at celebrating our culture. Every project was a challenge and an inspiration to work together.

Being part of PLCAA is a journey to self-discovery. I was given the task of an Event Chairperson which was an amazing experience. With everybody’s participation, we created a stage production titled Mano Po Lolo, Mano Po Lola, a real cultural triumph. Events like this connect us with other Filipinos making us foster long lasting networks, friendship and kapamilya all around Australia.  We know it’s more FUN in the Philippines, I can certainly say, it is FUN being with PLCAA and PLCAA makes it more FUN going to the Philippines.

• Stella Duru

I joined the PLCAA Cultural Dancers in 2012. The members are very friendly and I get to communicate in Filipino language. I feel like being home in the Philippines again with PLCAA. My husband is not a Filipino. We communicate in English at home. My children and grandchildren were born in Australia and have no awareness of Philippine culture. 

With my folk dancing through PLCAA, it  made my  family and friends be interested in knowing more of  their Filipino heritage and cultural background. 

• Giselle Galam

The PCFS has made a significant difference in my life. I joined the PLCAA several years ago when I was in primary school, where I was an active student for about 4 years. Prior to joining PLCAA, I did not know very much about my Filipino heritage, having been born here in Australia. The PLCAA introduced me to a greater understanding of the language, culture and history of the Philippines. As students, we were able to participate in various activities such as performing traditional dances, learning popular folk-songs, reading and writing in Filipino.

The school has provided me with many opportunities, such as heritage youth camps, numerous community events and  writing articles for Filipino newspapers. Through the nomination of PLCAA, I was a recipient of the Minister's Award for Educational Excellence in Language.  PLCAA has enabled me to not only develop more knowledge of my Filipino heritage, but has also allowed me to establish a deep sense of appreciation for my culture. It has allowed me to develop my own identity as a young Australian-Filipino, about who I am and where I come from. 

The PLCAA has benefited both individuals, like myself, and the community as a whole, allowing our value for our Filipino heritage to be shared with others and made known.  

• Nicole Fonacier

Penrith Community Filipino School (PCFS) has enhanced my understanding and appreciation of my parent's culture. It has improved my knowledge of the positive Filipino values like high regard for parents and elders.

Being a student of PCFS has also given me opportunities in performing at community events which in turn developed my confidence and interpersonal skills.   Likewise, it endears me to my Filipino relatives knowing that I strive to learn the Filipino language.  

• Alexis Lomigo

PCFS has made me meet new friends and perform in PLCAA’s community events including the Philippine Independence Day and  Pasko Na Naman. With PLCAA, I  shared the pride in winning the Best Children Walker's Award at the 2014 St Marys Spring Festival.

The PCFS Staff through PLCAA, upon learning the search for an 11 year old Filipino to play a role in a telemovie on Channel Nine,  has encouraged me to go for the audition. Among so many who came for the audition, I successfully got the role. Thank you to PCFS for acknowledging my talent and led me to be in an acting role in the television industry.

•  Rie Manoloto

PLCAA has opened  so many doors for me, doors that still continue to open many others. PLCAA has given opportunities to meet amazing people, build good relationships, learn different and valuable perspectives. PLCAA has allowed me to share my knowledge, skills and expertise in music through voice-coaching as well as performing with the PLCAA Glee Club. The group has so much promise showing  their willingness to learn  and discover new things on singing techniques, performing styles and principles. It would be great for everyone, singers, music lovers to join and experience the musical journey of the PLCAA Glee Club. 

PLCAA has demonstrated the strength and resilience of a community through the strong bond and connection of  the Filipino-Australian families.  

•     Lety Cunanan

I enjoyed teaching Filipino Language to young and adult Australians. It is very challenging but interesting. It's truly rewarding for me to hear them say simple sentences in Filipino after a series of lessons. 

I congratulate the PLCAA for putting up the school which has greatly served the community. I encourage qualified teachers to be  part of the Penrith Community Filipino School, a respectable Saturday language school.  

• Loy Tagudin 

PLCAA has always occupied a special place in my heart.  I found it a provider of cultural values because of its achievements earnestly demonstrated. 

As an integral part of Filipino Culture, my journey with the Penrith Community Filipino School (PCFS) as Music Teacher has always been filled with joy, excitement and fulfillment. 

Congratulations to the founders and supporters who laid the foundation of this organization I embrace with pride.