H.E. Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, Philippine Ambassador to Australia delivers her remarks during the Philippine Embassy’s diplomatic reception for the 121st Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on 12 June 2019.

CANBERRA, Australia – H.E. Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, Philippine Ambassador to Australia hosted a diplomatic reception on 12 June 2019 at Vibe Hotel in Canberra in celebration of the 121st Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence. There were around 180 guests from the Australian Government, diplomatic corps and business community.

In her remarks, Ambassador De La Vega said, “We pay tribute to our heroes by steadfastly moving towards a collective vision for the Filipino people to enjoy strongly rooted, comfortable and secure lives. This vision is the anchor of our country’s development plans and guides us in achieving economic growth that is relevant, inclusive and sustainable.”

Mr. George Christensen MP, as the Guest of Honor, paid tribute to the heroism of Dr. Jose Rizal. He acknowledged the shared values of the Philippines and Australia and particularly lauded the Filipino values of faith, community and close family ties which shape the Philippine society.

In this diplomatic reception, the Philippine Embassy in Australia and the Department of Tourism of the Philippines promoted the re-opening of the island of Boracay. Ambassador De La Vega invited more Australians to visit Boracay for a quality island experience that support sustainable tourism.

Guests had the opportunity to try the locally-produced Arc Botanical Gin and San Miguel beer and wine and a range of Filipino food such as inasal chicken (barbeque chicken), pancit (rice noodles) and lechon (roasted pig).

The Philippine Embassy in Australia appreciates the support of the Department of Tourism and the contributions of San Miguel Yamamura Australasia, Arc Botanical Gin by Full Circle Distillers, Malagos Chocolates, Castleglen Filipino Foods and 7D Mangoes.END

Mr. George Christensen MP, Member for Dawson, was the guest of honor during the Philippine Embassy’s diplomatic reception for the 121st Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on 12 June 2019.

H.E. Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, Philippine Ambassador to Australia and Ms. Pamela O’Grady, Acting Chief of Protocol, lead the toast during the Philippine Embassy’s diplomatic reception for the 121st Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on 12 June 2019.

The Philippine Embassy in Canberra and the Department of Tourism promoted the re-opening of Boracay Island during the Philippine Independence Day reception on 12 June 2019.