18 June 2012 - Philippine Ambassador to Australia Belen F. Anota hosted on June 12, a Vin d'Honneur to commemorate the 114th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence.
More than a hundred guests were in attendance, including, among others, Speaker of the House of Representatives the Honorable Peter Slipper, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Chief of Protocol Sally Mansfield, First Assistant Secretary and former Ambassador to the Philippines Rod Smith, other DFAT officers and staff, Heads of Missions in Canberra, Official Secretary to the Governor General Stephen Brady, Australian military officials and members of the academe.
The event was highlighted by the exchange of toasts between Ambassador Anota and Ms. Mansfield for the Philippines and Australia, and their respective leaders and peoples.
Ms. Julie Anne Manlulu of the Jesus is Lord Choir (Canberra Chapter) sang the Philippine and Australian national anthems a cappella.
In her message, Ambassador Anota highlighted the existing friendly and stronger relations between the Philippines and Australia, saying both countries share common stands on many political and economic issues. She also mentioned the improving economy of the Philippines and was optimistic on the prospects for increasing cooperation in areas of mutual interest. She also noted the strong people-to-people ties started in the 1800s, even before Australia and the Philippines came into being.
