ILOILO City – The Philippines-Australia Friendship Day was successfully celebrated in this southern city.
Making the celebration extra special were the Ilonggos themselves led by Iloilo City’s Mayor Jerry Treñas who welcomed the Australian delegation headed by Ambassador HK Yu PSM with the trademark warm Ilonggo hospitality.
“This is my first time in Iloilo but this won’t be my last because I love the City of Love,” said Yu in a nod to the cordiality of the city government and private sector partners such as SM City Iloilo.
The Australian delegation arrived in Iloilo on Friday night and was treated to a “Namit Gid” cocktails reception which showcased a delectable array of Iloilo City’s finest dishes at the famous Molo Mansion.
Yu and Treñas led the toast of friendship at the reception. They were also joined by the Australia Global Alumni.
Meanwhile, SM City Iloilo got to showcase Ilonggo hospitality by hosting one of the celebration’s highlight activities – the Philippines-Australia Friendship Day Festival opening on May 21.
Officially opened by Yu yesterday, the festival served as venue for the Ilonggos to experience Australia’s vibrant lifestyle and landscapes through a pop-up “Come and Say G’Day” exhibit, which featured information booths about education and travel opportunities in Australia; a mini football clinic that showcased Australia’s sports-for-development projects for the Iloilo youth; as well as live entertainment that celebrates Iloilo’s vibrant culture.
Prior the festival’s opening, Yu took time to show her support to young Ilonggo football enthusiasts at a football clinic.
During the festival, Ilonggos get to taste of Australia with Coles products and other great Australian brands available at SM Markets.
“Mallgoers enjoy learning about Australian education and scholarship opportunities. The information session on Australian visas is very informative,” said SM City Iloilo Mall Manager Gilbert Domingo.
He said that through the festival which will run until May 26, mallgoers are given the opportunity to learn more about Australian culture, and gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of the many facets of the Philippines-Australia relationship.
SM is a longstanding partner of the Australian Embassy.
Among its many collaborations, SM is especially honored to have been part of the Embassy’s milestone celebrations. These include the celebration of the 75th anniversary of Australia-Philippines diplomatic relations at the SM Mall of Asia, and previous Friendship Day festivals at SM Lanang Premier in Davao and last year at SM Megamall.
Domingo said SM City Iloilo is honored to be part of the Friendship Day 2023 festivities in Iloilo.
“Our previous events with the Embassy have also highlighted our shared commitment and support for sustainability and the environment, women’s economic empowerment, MSMEs, disaster risk reduction, health and wellness, and arts and culture,” Domingo noted.
Meanwhile, another festival highlight is the exhibition on “Creating Liveable and Resilient Cities” showcasing renowned architect Paulo Alcazaren from May 21 to 28.
“Our thanks to the Australian Embassy once again for this outstanding effort to bring Australia closer to Ilonggos through this festival at SM City Iloilo,” Domingo added.
Other activities of the Philippines-Australia Friendship Day included the gathering of Iloilo government and business leaders as well as the academe for a series of knowledge sessions on heritage conservation, sustainability and creating liveable cities.
There was also Friendship Day Tree Planting and Unveiling of Australia’s donation of way-finders and bike racks at Plaza Libertad.
The 3k, 5k and 10k Philippines-Australia Friendship Run also highlighted the celebration.
Also staged was the Manila Men: Retracing the Journey of the First Filipinos in Australia Exhibition at the National Museum – Western Visayas.
Presidential Proclamation No. 1282, Series of 2016 has declared May 22 of each year as Philippines-Australia Friendship Day to celebrate the longstanding diplomatic ties between the two countries./PN
