To celebrate the 126th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and to highlight the growing Filipino community in the Blacktown area, Handog Pinoy initiated the “Celebration of Philippine Culture” exhibit at Max Webber Blacktown Library for the whole month of June.
The exhibit was made possible by Blacktown city Council, Blacktown Library and in collaboration with Aguman Capampangan, Banag-Banag, Filipino Cooperative Inc., Visayan Association, UST Alumni Australia, and was jointly curated by Michelle Ramas and Benjie de Ubago.
The Philippine Cordillerans with the beat of their gongs led the crowd from Bowman Hall after the flag raising event to the library for the official opening, stopping traffic along the way. Blacktown City Mayor, Brad Bunting along with Consul Sheila Marie Tario did the honours of the ribbon cutting. Filipino entertainer, Mr. Raymond Lauchengco who happened to be in Sydney for his show, also graced the event.
This unique collection reflects on the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage, entwined with its customs and traditions. Being Philippine Independence month the exhibit also reflected on the Philippines’ rich history to celebrate the resilience, spirit and diversity of a freedom loving people.
The main focus of the exhibit were the three mannequins dressed in period costumes symbolising the women who sewed the Philippine flag. Also on exhibit were the vibrant, indigenous tribes – the ifugao tribe of Luzon, the Ati tribe of the Visayas and the B’laan tribe of Mindanao.
Also on display were replicas of Dr. Jose Rizal’s books, “Noli Mi Tangere” and “El Ffilibusterismo” which stirred Filipinos to the Philippine revolution. Books penned by Filipino authors capturing their experiences back home and in Australia were donated to the library.
A message from the Philippine Consulate read as follows:
“We, at the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney, commend the efforts of Handog Pinoy and participating Filipino Organizations, with the support of the Blacktown City Council, in putting together this meaningful cultural exhibition of Philippine fashion. It was inspiring to see the artistry and creativity of Filipinos in the various regions of our country as reflected in their colourful and elegant attire.”
This vibrant and colourful exhibit is a testament of the Filipino’s talent, creativity and the brilliant craftsmanship of Filipino artisans imbued with the age-long Filipino values and religious overtones.
Photos: Marissa Bala
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