An Independence Day Ball was held on Saturday, 13 June 2009, at the National Capital Convention Centre organized by the Filipino Community Council of the ACT, Inc. (FCCACT). The event was attended by more than 400 guests. Among the invitees were Guests of Honour, Ambassador Ernesto H. De Leon and Senator for the ACT, Mr. Gary Humphreys.

The Ball was highlighted by cultural performances from several Filipino organizations in the ACT and the presentation of the ACT candidate for Miss Philippines-Australia Pageant, which will be held sometime this year in Sydney.

During his speech, Ambassador De Leon congratulated the officers and members of the FCCACT for their great effort in organizing the ball. The Ambassador also gave a short history of how the Philippines achieved its independence. He urged all the Filipinos in the gathering to continue to support the Philippines by promoting Filipino culture, pointing out the positive qualities of the Philippines and the Filipinos, and by continuously supporting the political institutions of the country. He also urged anybody who is qualified to vote to exercise his/her right in the forthcoming elections in May 2010.