Gesture of Appreciation

 As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Australia, PLCAA acknowledges our local partnerships.

What happens in Penrith does not stay in Penrith.

Penrith City Council did more than open its doors to the Filipino community. The Council was receptive to PLCAA’s ideas that enabled us to do what we are proud of… sharing Philippine culture and promoting Filipino language in our community. The Council paved the way towards the establishment of the Penrith Community Filipino School. Students learned about Filipino heritage, culture, and values.

The Council supports PLCAA through generous funding and working relationships with Council officers particularly the Council’s Event Team, Neighbourhood Facilities Team and the Penrith City Library Staff.

Today we acknowledge our Penrith Councilors who have supported PLCAA’s projects, which have promoted cultural diversity in our community.

Emeritus Mayor Pat Sheehy AM – you paved the way for PLCAA to be born. Since the Read Philippines project, developed with the Philippine Consul General Sydney, you have inspired the Filipino community to be visible, engaged and empowered in the community, and supported PLCAA all the way in our events. Emeritus Mayor Pat Sheehy, you are the rock on which PLCAA stands.

Cr Kevin Crameri, we treasure your fellowship and trust in PLCAA in pursuing youth programs especially the Rigodon de Honor, a formal Filipino traditional dance. We thank you for your support. Cr. Kevin Crameri , you are the Dancing King.

Cr. Ross Fowler OAM, your phone call made history –when you asked “ what can I do to help the victims of Typhoon Haiyan?” – you motivated PLCAA to organise “ Dance for a Cause”. It was not only a fundraising event but an embodiment of your sincerity and strong desire to help the Philippines. Cr. Ross Fowler , you are a Marvel Hero.

Cr John Thain, your support helped us welcome the multi awarded Loboc Children’s Choir to our Philippine Independence Day celebration. It was an epic performance that showcased the beauty of the Philippines through music and dance. Cr John, you are the Great Entertainer.

 

Cr Greg Davies, it has been a pleasure for PLCAA to see how much involvement Cr Davies had been in our events. I quote Cr Davies “ I fondly remember not only watching the singing and dancing but also being a part of it” Cr. Greg Davies, he is the Elvis Presley of Penrith.

Cr Jim Aitken, his support to the spectacular Philippine Cultural Day , also graced by the Philippine Embassy, has made a milestone not only in PLCAA’s history but that of Penrith Council. Cr Jim Aitken, he is the Cultural Wonder.

Cr Mark Davies, inspite of busy schedules, he was there to support the Philippine Independence Day giving emphasis to its importance to the Filipino community. Cr Mark Davies, he is an Absolute Belter.

Cr Karen McKeown OAM, in her role as Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Councillor and in her personal support in all PLCAA projects and events, she has strengthened cultural enrichment of the community. I quote Cr. Mckeown, “ Council values the contribution the Association and our Filipino community make to Penrith – whether through being part of our multi-cultural working party, sharing your cultural heritage, or just in your daily lives as residents and business owners. We look forward to a continued relationship between the Philippines and Australia and between Council and our Filipino community.” Cr Karen Mckeown, she is the Queen of Hearts.

Thank you also to the Federal and State Members who have graced our community events, which reflects the deep relationship between the Philippines and Australia.

These strong relations between PLCAA and the Penrith Council has helped PLCAA establish partnerships with other community organisations and gained generous support from Filipino businesses which has further enhanced the Penrith’s multicultural diversity.

Thank you SAFSI, AGUMAN, ADOLP, PASSCI, SONATA SINGERS, Filipiniana Friends Group Bathurst and Central West , MAHARLIKA RIDERS, Filoz Riders of Australia, FILIPINO CHAPLAINCY of the Diocese of Parramatta and TAMARAWS.

Thank you Zignal Travels, SBC Foods Pty, Leo Ceniza Pty Ltd, Aus-Pac Education & Migration Consultants, FilipinOz and Western Union.

Our events have been generously covered by the Filipino newspapers and have been graciously attended by prominent Filipino community leaders and community organisations. Thank you Multicultural Advisory Board, Blacktown and Hornsby Councillors, Handog Pinoy, PCC, APCO and BICOL Inc, Bayanihan News, Philippine Community Herald and the whole Filipino Community.

Today’s coming together and celebrating is definitely wonderful. PLCAA is destined to remain in the cultural hearts of Penrith and surrounding suburbs.