The event was attended by over 200 guests coming together to celebrate the founding of one of the oldest Filipino community seniors group in VIC. Attendees showed up in their glam outfit-gentlemen in Barong Tagalog or suit and ladies in gowns.
The group’s president Melita Dacumos said the event provided an opportunity for members to celebrate the momentous occasion with their families, friends and supporters.
City of Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos welcomed the audience with a message that touched upon PEASER’s purpose and goals.
“What we want to make sure is to address social isolation, particularly people from the senior generation.”
“With PEASER and the work they have done in the past 25 years, we made sure that the Filipino community, particularly the older Filipino community, are able to celebrate their culture, celebrate their language, celebrate their food and really just have a great time,” Mr Staikos said.
Mr Staikos also graced the induction and oathtaking of PEASER’s newly elected officers:
Another guest speaker, Mr Hong Lim, MP, complimented the Filipino elderly group’s efforts and contribution in the community.
Cr Steve Staikos gracing the officers' oathtaking (L-R) Flora Manongdo, Marie Porter Ofelia Manongdo, Juliet Orquia, and Melita Dacumos. Source: RMasinag/SBS Filipino
“They worked so hard to promote Filipino culture [through] dance, song, and music. After 22 years and 8 months, I am now retiring myself, but I have nothing but pride and respect for PEASER for their dedication to be involved,” Mr Lim said.
Mrs Lilia Gonzales, one of the original and most senior members of the group shared how the founding members saw the need to help elderly Filipinos cope with the feeling of isolation and longing for integration within the community.
“[Over the years,] PEASER has been able to join with other ethnic groups and broader Australian community to showcase their culture and in return enrich their senior members’ experience and self-worth,” Mrs Gonzales said.
Mrs Lilia Gonzales shares her fondest memories as a member of PEASER. Source: RMasinag/SBS Filipino
Mrs Gonzales recalled that her fondest memory as a PEASER member, was attending their weekly Sunday meetings and birthday celebrations. She said the idea of camaraderie was very important for the group.
The highlights of the evening include live band entertainment, raffle prizes, surprise performance by PEASER jewels and the special presentation of folk dances by PEASER dancers.
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