Press Release

Filipiniana Friends Group  in Bathurst NSW Australia celebrates 116th Anniversary of Philippine Independence

By Nenita L. Weekes Meacham
President/Coordinator
Filipiniana Friends Group
Bathurst-NSW-Australia
June 16, 2014



Bathurst NSW a small rural town of Australia once again raised the biggest Philippine Flag in the Southern Hemisphere.

In the heartland of rural Australia, Filipiniana Friends Group of Bathurst and the Central West of New South Wales, led by its President Nenita Lopez Weekes Meacham, raised the Australian and Philippine Flags at Bathurst , Berry Park, and celebrated the 116th Anniversary of the Declaration of Philippines Independence in the Parish Hall of the Cathedral of St Michael and St John, which was decorated with banners and flags as befitting the event, and a spectacular computerised visual display.
Despite the inclement weather, a downpour after many dry weeks, the huge Australian and Philippine Flags were expertly raised by the flag donors Bathurst Lions Club, together with a Guard of Honour provided by the Knights of Rizal Sydney Chapter, and the National Anthems were sung by the enthusiastic crowd, many of whom had travelled considerable distances for the event.

The gathering then proceeded to the Parish Hall for refreshments and entertainment. Amongst the guests from Sydney and the Central West were: The Minister for Local Government, the Honourable Paul Toole, The Mayor of Bathurst Regional Council, Gary Rush, and the Philippine Consul from Sydney, Marford Angeles, and Danny Peralta, Treasurer of the Philippine Community Council of NSW acting on behalf PCC NSW President Jun Relunia.


On a more serious note, The Knights of Rizal Sydney Chapter reminded us all of the gallant young revolutionaries who made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. It was suggested that their legacy could be honoured by Filipino Australians living lives of harmonious productivity and integrity. This was endorsed by the Bathurst Mayor who applauded the colourful diversity brought to the city by Filipinos and their strong work ethic.

During this event the newly elected officers of the Filipiniana Friends Group of Bathurst and the Central West were formally inducted by Consul Marford Angeles, who also spent time facilitating Philippines Overseas Absentee voting registration for Filipinos and for those of dual Citizenship, both of which are currently strong initiatives in the Filipino Australian Community.

The occasion was a great success and thanks are due to all organisations and individuals who supported the event, and  warmly welcomed some  overseas visitors.