PR-30-2021
It was a simple get-together to thank the Filipino community for supporting the Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne as it celebrated the first year anniversary of its full operations offering a wide range of consular services for Filipinos and other clients.
“A few months back in April we got together is this same space to officially announce the opening of the Consulate. Many things have transpired since then and I thank you all for supporting us as we navigate our way in this part of Australia. We have endured more than 100 days of lockdown but we continue to bounce back. There is so much to thank for,” Consul General Maria Lourdes Salcedo said in her short remarks. She called on the Filipino Community to mobilize their networks to help victims of Typhoon Odette. She then thanked her team and called them one by one while the audience clapped their hands.
The event also provided an opportunity for Administrative Officer and Assistant GAD Officer Estellita Casuga to announce that the Philippines and Australia joined the global campaign to end violence against women from 26 November to 12 December 2021. Melba Marginson of The Silent Witness Network took to the floor to explain a collaboration with the Consulate called “Silent No More” to prevent family violence. Lucky guests who were seated on marked chairs were given VAW-free t-shirts, which will be used in future campaigns. AO Casuga reminded those with t-shirts that they are now considered collaborators in this important advocacy. The guests also received their gift packs of Philippine products. END
