PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla, ACT 2600
www.philembassy.org.au    *Tel. No. 02-6273-2535*

21 April 2026, MELBOURNE - Ambassador Antonio Morales met with members of the Filipino community in Victoria at a reception hosted by the Philippine Consulate General in Melbourne, led by Consul General Jesus Gary Domingo. The gathering brought together community leaders, professionals, and stakeholders and featured a selection of well-loved Filipino street food.

In his remarks, Ambassador Morales commended the Filipino community for its meaningful contributions to Australian society, particularly in vital sectors that support the country’s workforce and skills base. He underscored the community’s role in promoting social cohesion and fostering deeper people-to-people ties between the Philippines and Australia. He affirmed that the Filipino communities “are the true ambassadors and the building blocks of Philippines-Australia friendship.”

The Ambassador also highlighted the 80th anniversary of bilateral relations and the long-standing historical ties between the Philippines and Australia. He recalled that both countries fought together during the Second World War, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which is commemorated by a plaque at the Shrine of Remembrance. He also recalled that President Manuel L. Quezon sought refuge in Australia during the war where he briefly stayed in Melbourne and established the Philippine government-in-exile.

Ambassador Morales noted the expanding cooperation in defence, including recent engagements involving the Philippine Navy in Australia, as a sign of strengthened strategic ties. He also emphasized the growing economic dimension of bilateral relations, citing Philippine investments in Australia, including the Victoria International Container Terminal at the Port of Melbourne, which is one of the largest investments by a Philippine company in the country.

The Ambassador likewise recognized the role of Filipino community organizations in advancing shared goals, and expressed appreciation for community leaders for their continued dedication and initiatives.

Victoria hosts the second-largest Filipino community in Australia, with more than 95,000 people of Filipino heritage, including over 68,000 who were born in the Philippines. - END

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