PRESS RELEASE

Philippine Embassy, Canberra

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

10 May 2026, PERTH - The Filipino-Australian community marked a significant cultural milestone with the unveiling of the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Filipino Australian Club of Perth Inc. (FACPI), the first-ever monument of the Philippine national hero in Western Australia.

The ceremony featured remarks from Ambassador Antonio Morales, City of Bayswater Mayor Filomena Piffareti, World Supreme Commander of the Knights of Rizal (KOR) Sir Emmanuel Calairo PhD, Knight Commander of Rizal (KCR), Western Australia Chapter Sir Nestor Jongko and Sir Lorenzo Escalante KCR.

Also in attendance were Honorary Consul to Western Australia Melissa Aguasa, members of the Knights of Rizal (KOR) and Kababaihang Maka-Rizal (KMR) Inc., Perth Chapter, as well as members of the broader Filipino-Australian community.

In his address, Ambassador Morales described the unveiling as a meaningful expression of shared values between the Philippines and Australia. He emphasized that Dr. Rizal’s ideals of education, civic responsibility, and national dignity continue to transcend generations and borders, and that the monument serves as a lasting reminder of these principles. He also acknowledged the support of the Western Australian Government and local partners in strengthening cultural understanding and people-to-people ties.

The unveiling marked the culmination of sustained efforts by Filipino community leaders in Western Australia to honour Dr. Rizal’s legacy and promote Philippine history and values in Australia’s multicultural society. It also formed part of broader commemorative activities celebrating the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Australia. - END

#PHAU80YEARS🇵🇭🇦🇺