Prime Minister Julia Gillard and NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell attended the Philippine National Day Ball hosted by the Philippine Community Council of NSW Inc (PCC-NSW, State peak umbrella organisation of Filipino-Australians) at the Grand Pavillion, Rosehill Gardens NSW on 9th June 2013 to celebrate the 115th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence. The presence of the prime minister came as a big surprise at the gala celebration. She was warmly welcomed by the more than 400 guests including government officials from both Australia and the Philippines.
The highlights of the event were the Ceremonial Toast to the President of the Republic of the Philippines and to the Filipino people by the guest of honour, Prime Minister Gillard and the Rigodon de Honour dance participated in by community leaders and choreographed by Novy Bereber. Consul General Anne Jalando-on Louis, representing the Republic of the Philippines, also proposed a toast to the Queen and to the people of Australia. Musical numbers were presented by guest performers – international artist David Pomeranz, Sydney-based Filipino-Australian artists Louie George, Ani Luzung and Meera Belle and a dance performance by The Philippine Dance Ensemble. The Sydney Sonata Singers conducted by Loy Tagudin sang the Philippine and Australian national anthems and Tyrone Andres representing the Filipino youth gave the invocation before the program commenced. Compere Rod Dingle ably attended to the formalities and ensured the proceedings were in order. All night dancing followed with Sonny Soriano and the Inner Games Band.
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http://pcherald.com.au/home-mainmenu-1/national-news/item/547-prime-minister-and-premier-grace-philippine-independence-celebration
