25 June 2024 – Philippine Embassy of Canberra celebration of 126th Philippine Independence Day Reception at National Ballroom, Hotel Realm, Canberra hosted by Her Excellency Philippine Ambassador to Australia, Ma. Hellen De La Vega. The event was graced by Special Minister of State and Minister for Trade and Tourism, Senator the Hon Don Farrell delivering keynote remarks regarding trade and tourism relations between Australia and the Philippines and Mr. David Smith MP delivering remarks of shared history and deep bonds of friendship of the Philippines and Australia including the second world war. The Independence Day reception was attended by foreign dignitaries, heads of multinational companies and federal and state politicians and organizations along with Philippine Consular officers from Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.