KALAYAAN 2025: Filipino Community and Philippine Consulate General Hold Philippine Flag Raising Ceremony in Melbourne’s Federation Square

PR-13-2025

The Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne held its annual flag raising ceremony in Federation Square in the heart of Melbourne with the Filipino Community, followed by a brunch served in PCG premises. Over 150 people attended the two events, the highlights of which are as follows:

Flag-Raising at Federation Square

The ceremony began with Ati-Atihan dancers from Morwell marching through Federation Square with onlookers from all directions, including Flinders Street Railway Station, Melbourne’s central and largest railway station.

After their dance, the drummers then started the march of the colors, led by Major Bobby Gabayno, the Knights of Rizal, and Katipunan Australia.
As Major Gabayno raised the flag, the Kiko Choir of Melbourne sang Lupang Hinirang. After the anthem, Filipino Priest Fr. Litoy Asis gave a blessing.

Consul Ralph Vincent C. Abarquez read the message of the President, while Consul Jan Sherwin Wenceslao read the message of the Secretary for Foreign Affairs. Ms. Estellita Casuga read the message of the Ambassador of the Philippines in Canberra.

Consul Abarquez then led an oathtaking ceremony in front of the flag for around 30 candidates for retention or reacquisition of Filipino Citizenship under R.A. 9225.
Mr. Fred Jover gave the closing remarks. Upon the conclusion of the ceremonies, participants were encouraged to proceed to the Consulate General’s premises for brunch

Brunch in PCG Premises

A traditional Filipino brunch was served in PCG premises, with Café Kusina being the lead caterer, with other dishes or drinks coming from Sarimanok, Barkada Pinoy, Purple Yum, Asian Pantry, and members of the Filipino Community. Dishes of Bangus, Tocino, Adobo, Longganisa, Sinangag, and Pancit were served, while for dessert there was a traditional taho alongside ube and mango cupcakes. Calamansi juice was also readily available alongside Kape Barako.
During the brunch, the President’s message was played again, followed by the message of the First Lady. After the messages, Consul Abarquez and Consul Wenceslao held a ceremonial cutting of a three-tiered ube cake celebrating Kalayaan 2025.

Photos by Angelito Valdez, Jr.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

All content is in the public domain unless otherwise stated.

ABOUT GOVPH

Learn more about the Philippine government, its structure, how government works and the people behind it.

ABOUT GOVPH

FOLLOW US

Facebook Instagram
Scroll to Top