Philippine Consulate Queensland

The Philippine Consulate Queensland proudly participated in the Filipino-Australian Business Industry and Communities Council of QLD Inc.’s annual flag-raising ceremony on June 8, 2024, at Village Green, Toowoomba, in commemoration of the 126th Philippine Independence Day. Reena Johnson delivered the official address in the Consul’s absence, celebrating our rich heritage and enduring connections.

On May 21, 2024, the APBC Group Energy Showcase at the Duxton Hotel provided a deep dive into the Philippines 2024 Energy Bid Round. Attendees heard directly from the Philippine Department of Energy Undersecretary Alessandro O. Sales about new opportunities and strategic insights shaping the future of energy in the region. It was a valuable occasion to engage with key stakeholders and explore the future of energy in the Philippines.

1 June 2024 – Filipino Australian Brisbane Society Inc. (FABS)Experiencing Filipino culture, the annual Bayanihan festival is a day of celebration, unity, and cultural richness. This vibrant event pays tribute to the Filipino tradition of communal cooperation and mutual support, bringing together families and friends to share the beauty of the Filipino heritage. The presence of Philippine Consul Atty. Sheryll Gabutero, Logan City Mayor Jon Raven, Logan City Councillor Theresa Lane, and Queensland’s Minister for Multicultural Affairs Charis Mullen were well-received and contributed to the overall importance in celebrating culture.

18 May 2024 – Filipino-Australian Teachers Association of Queensland (FATAQ) annual fund-raising social event celebrating ‘Flores De Mayo’ at Runcorn Tavern, Runcorn. The fundraising social gathered many stylish members and supporters of FATAQ showcasing their best gowns and headdresses. The President of FATAQ, Josie Swallow, opened the event and showcased FATAQ past years program, with Philippine Consul Atty. Sheryll Gabutero providing inspirational messages along with other committee members of FATAQ, Raffy Landicho and Victor Estillore. The event’s Master of Ceremonies was Teresita Aquino-Launt. All proceeds went to FATAQ literacy program which includes conducting workshops and seminars for international students with respect to visa, migration, and teaching requirements in Queensland, donating equipment to schools in the Philippines and sponsoring disadvantaged school children in conjunction with the Smith Family Charity.

11 May 2024 – Queensland Filipino-Australian Arts Association Inc (QFAAA) grand opening of Contemporary Collective Multi-Arts Cocktail Launch at Kedron Wavell Club showcasing local artists in painting, digital art, sculpture, and fashion over two days. The Contemporary Collective Multi-Arts was opened by the President of QFAAA, Gina Luck, Reena Johnson (Vice President), Loida Morante (Treasurer), Josyl Miranda (Secretary) along with Consul Atty. Sheryll Gabutero who gave congratulatory messages. Over the two days exhibition local artists were able to display their talents and sell their art pieces. The cocktail launch included a fashion parade by Lanie Moore, Chona Allen and Sariling Atin with singing by the winners of QFAAA Danzing with the Stars, Jan Mojica and Raime Idian.

06 August 2024 – Courtesy call to the Philippine Consul of Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero from Department of Health (DOH), Philippines, during their attendance and invitation from Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) at the Health Innovation Conference for digitization of health headed by the Undersecretary of Health, Dr. Emmie Liza Perez-Chiong. Accompanied by Department of Health, eHealth Systems Lead, Ms. Cherrie Estaban, PhilHealth Senior Manager Atty. Emily Roque, Professor Dr. Alvin Marcelo, University of the Philippines (Manila), Dr. Boeing Chiong and Ms. Maria Lucita Sevilla, Program officer from DFAT. Department of Health was welcomed by Dr. Karen (Kai) Gebusion (CEO Sana All, CMO Greenlife), Rafael Toda (President, Australia Philippine Business Council) and Raisa Bergola.

The monumental event was organised by the Philippine Consulate-General Office of Melbourne, led by Consul-General Maria Lourdes Salcedo. ​ Notable figures present at the community meeting included Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Enrique Manalo, Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers Hans Leo Cacdac, and Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and covered by the Philippine Times. ​ The gathering provided an invaluable opportunity for the Filipino community to engage with key government officials and discuss matters of importance. It underscored the commitment of the Philippine Consulate-General Office of Melbourne to serve and support the Filipino community in Australia.

This significant gathering served as a lead-up to the ASEAN summit and brought together key figures from both nations. Among the distinguished attendees were Undersecretary Antonilo Mauricio, General Manager of National Development Company, Her Excellency Hae Kyong (HK) Yu, Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, Rafael Toda, President of the Australian Philippine Business Council (APBC), and Atty. Dennis Quintero, Chairman of the Philippines Australia Business Council (PABC).  Multiple memorandums of understanding were signed between government and private sector entities, highlighting the commitment to strengthen bilateral ties and foster collaboration. Noteworthy partnerships include the South East Asian Biosecurity Institute’s collaboration with Murdoch University, as well as agreements with Cyclion, DysruptIT, Iridium Private, Investible, and Lamudi, among others. These initiatives underscore the shared commitment to economic development and innovation between Australia and the Philippines.

The event heralded a new era of coffee appreciation, showcasing beans cultivated and processed in the picturesque landscapes of the Philippines. ​ “At First Harvest Coffee, our beans are cultivated and processed in the beautiful landscapes of the Philippines. They originate from warm, elevated areas with distinct microclimates, ensuring a unique and exceptional flavour in every batch… Our coffee is exclusively sourced from small, close-knit farming communities with their own shared mill, making each release a genuine single-origin experience.” ​ The event was spearheaded by Marie-Anne Espiritu and her husband, co-founders of the business, who have tirelessly worked to bring the exquisite taste of Philippine coffee to Australia.

24 February 2024 — Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero graced and presented awards during the Coronation Night of the ‘FACE OF AUSTRALIA QUEENSLAND 2024’ held at Hilton Hotel, Brisbane.  Presided by Lyn Shadbolt, the Face of Australia Queensland pageant showcased outstanding talents and beauty with special guest of Filipino-Australian singer Marlisa Punsalan. ​ Face of Australia Queensland 2024 list of winners overall and by category:Grand Winner – Chymbeelyn de Pasion Princess Winner – Xavielle Moreno Teens Winner – Adela Shallaker Prince Winner – Keanu Andes-Olsson Congratulations to all candidates and winners!

21 February 2024 — Embracing cultural awareness, Consul a.h. Sheryll Gabutero attended the 2024 Chinese Lunar New Year Gala Reception hosted by the Chinese Consul-General in Brisbane Dr. Ruan Zongze at Brisbane Convention Centre.

7 February 2024 — A warm reception and courtesy call were extended to Honourable Mayor Kevin Roy Quinto Macanlalay of the Municipality of Calasiao. During the visit, Honorary Consul Gabutero of the Philippine Consulate Queensland had the opportunity to explore the 17th-century baroque church, known as Saints Peter and Paul Parish Church or commonly referred to as Calasiao Church. Additionally, a visit was made to the Señor Divino Tesoro Shrine. Special thanks are extended to Events by Nikki for arranging the visitation and to the Philippine Consulate’s official photographer, JKMFhotography.

7 February 2024 — Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero was warmly welcomed by Hon. Mayor Modesto Mejia Operania and the whole of Urbiztondo Municipal Hall in an official visit to the Municipality of Urbiztondo in Pangasinan, Philippines. The opportunity to visit the municipality ensued discussions on agricultural products, equipment, and know-how and the potential of linking vital stakeholders between Queensland, Australia and Urbiztondo, Pangasinan. Consul Gabutero then attended the celebration of teachers at Urbiztondo Integrated School where Hon. Mayor Operania spoke of encouraging and inspiring words to their scholarly teachers. Consul Gabutero was later accompanied by Hon. Mayor Operania to visit Urbiztondo’s local church, ‘Saint Pius V’. Philippine Consulate Queensland extends its gratitude to Events by Nikki for their exceptional coordination of the official visit and to JKMFhotography as the official photographer of the Consulate.

7 February 2024 — Following the Asian Pacific Cities Summit on Brisbane in October 2023, Consul a.h. Sheryll Gabutero of the Philippine Consulate Queensland was invited by Hon. Mayor Karl Christian F. Vega to the Municipality of Mapandan in Pangasinan, Philippines to strengthen ties between Queensland and the province of Pangasinan.During the visit, Consul Gabutero had the honour of inaugurating the CIBAC Multi-Purpose Building for the Stimulation Therapeutic Activity Center (STAC) that will benefit over a hundred children with special needs from 15 barangays living in challenging conditions. The building was an initiative donated by Senator Joel Villanueva and Hon. Congressman Eduardo “Bro. Eddie” Villanueva signifying a remarkable collaboration for the betterment of community. The Philippine Consulate Queensland extends heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Mayor Karl Christian F. Vega for his boundless hospitality and looks forward to future collaborations.Special thanks to Events by Nikki for arranging the courtesy visit and to JKMFhotography as the official photographer of The Philippine Consulate Queensland.

From his early aspirations to join the Australian Imperial Force at the age of 15 to his subsequent service in the US Army Small Ships Section, Len’s journey reflects resilience and selflessness. It was only in 2020 that he was rightfully honored with the 1939-45 Star, recognizing his valor alongside the US Army Small Ships. As a special guest at the South Eastern District’s commemorative event in August 2023, Len’s presence underscored his enduring legacy and contribution to history. ​ We fondly remember Len’s special visit to the office of the Philippine Consulate on 2 February 2024, where he graciously shared his invaluable experiences from World War II. Earlier this year, Len stood as the only survivor among three from the Battle of Leyte. He expressed his desire to attend the 80th commemoration later this year, a poignant testament to his steadfast dedication in honoring the sacrifices and memories of his comrades. May his memory continue to inspire and his legacy endure.

6 February 2024 — Consul a.h. Sheryll Gabutero of the Philippine Consulate Queensland in a meet and greet with Department of Justice Spokesperson Mico Clavano in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, accompanied by family and friends.

3 February 2024 — The Philippine Consulate Queensland together with members of the Filipino community gathered for the book launch of “DAUNTLESS” by Marie Silva Vallejo. Vallejo’s ‘Dauntless’ delves into the rich history of cooperation among the Philippines, Australia, and the United States in the Second World War whilst commemorating The Battle of Leyte over 80 years ago with the unique participation of the 98-year-old veteran Lenard McCleod sharing his inspiring story of resilience. Listen to the SBS Filipino’s podcast episode which features the Philippine Consulate Queensland’s World War II event here.

25 January 2024 — Reflecting on an unforgettable night of beauty as the International Pageant Organisation held the “AUSTRALIA AND ASIA-PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL PAGEANTRY” at Tattersall’s Club in Brisbane City. The pageant was hosted by the organisation president Helen Bishop and adding to the glamour was the esteemed presence of Consul a.h. Sheryll Gabutero of the Philippine Consulate Queensland who is also the organising committee for the Queensland Filipino Excellence Awards (QFEA).  The Consulate wishes the candidates their best as they progress through to the Asia Pacific round.

20 January 2024 — In celebration of TRISKELION’s 55th Founding Anniversary, Philippine Consul a.h. Sheryll Gabutero as guest speaker welcomed the group’s vision and projects in the community, solidifying their presence and foundations in Queensland. The Consulate looks forward to supporting the community projects and recognizing the efforts of Triskelion International Queensland Council Australia Inc., headed by Chairwoman Gale Carroll, Vice Chairman External Ryan Guerrero, Vice Chairman Internal Lex Tamayo, Secretary Rose Bacal, Treasurer Arvie Reyes, Auditor Tylord Rosal, and MWW Kris Gadon.

CANBERRA (01 FEBRUARY 2024) – The Philippine Government through the Bureau of the Treasury is inviting Filipinos in Australia who are interested to deepen their knowledge and understanding of government securities to a Financial Literacy Session on Retail Treasury Bonds (RTB). The Bureau of the Treasury will be hosting the online Financial Literacy Session on 16 February 2024 at 6:00 PM AEST. RTBs are Peso-denominated, low-risk, fixed-income investments that provide interest every quarter. Moreover, they are part of the National Government’s savings mobilization program designed to enhance retail access to government securities. Proceeds from the issuance are directed to financing the Republic’s priority projects and key national expenditures as approved by the National Budget. Join the event viabit.ly/RTBFinLit

Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero, was warmly welcomed by Mayor Abby, Vice Mayor Monique Lagdameo, and Congressman Luis Campos at Makati City Hall on December 27, 2023. Atty. Gabutero’s visit, honors a commitment made earlier in 2023 with the Makati delegation and highlights the growing relationship between Makati and Queensland.In September, Makati collaborated with the Asian Institute of Management’s (AIM) School of Executive Education and Lifelong Learning (SEELL) in sending a delegation to Australia for the ‘Transforming the Futures of Peace and Order for the Local Government of Makati City’ program. This initiative aims to develop future-thinking skills and actionable strategies to enrich Makati’s global perspectives.See the Facebook post by the Official Facebook Account of the City Makati here: https://www.facebook.com/MyMakatiVerified/posts/pfbid02brZWnPRt93bnAqj2eQg5hT9E6fW69Xe9BWe7ndWvrCV4uzW6mCwDhhwgENUfvT6Ql

Hon. Consul Atty. Sheryll Gabutero, Philippine Consul to Queensland, at the Pilipino Australian Social Club Inc. (PASOC) end of year get-together and Christmas celebration at Logan Civic Gardens on 17 December 2023 with Executive Committee members.

Hon. Consul Atty. Sheryll Gabutero, Philippine Consul to Queensland, attends Christmas party of Ilocano Ti Australia and induction of Executive Officers at Robina Community Centre, Gold Coast on 16 December 2023 showcasing native Ilocano dances and traditional dishes.

Hon. Consul Atty. Sheryll Gabutero, Philippine Consul to Queensland, makes courtesy port call to Congressional delegation led by Hon. Adolph Edward G. Plaza as they arrive in Brisbane on 7 December 2023.  The Congressional delegation were undertaking a study and planning visit on the National Soil Health Strategy with Cong. Adolph Edward Plaza (Rep. 2nd District of Agusan Del Sur), Cong. Alfelito Bascug (Rep. 1st District of Agusan Del Sur), Cong. Maria Angela Garcia (Rep. 3rd District Bataan), Cong. Christian Tell Yap (Rep. 2nd District of Tarlac), Cong. Wilter Palma (Rep. 1st District of Zamboanga Sibugay), Gov. Santiago Cane Jr. (Provincial Governor, Agusan del Sur), Gov. Susan Yap (Provincial Governor, Tarlac), Vice Gov. Samuel Tortor (Provincial Vice Governor, Agusan del Sur).

18 December 2023, CANBERRA – Rep. Eddiebong Plaza led a delegation composed of Rep. Alfel Bascug, Rep. Maria Angela Garcia, Rep. Wilter Palma, Rep. Christian Tell Yap, Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane Jr., and Tarlac Governor Susan Yap to meet officials in Canberra and Queensland on 06 to 11 December 2023 to build cooperation on the development of the national soil health strategy. Officials from the Department of Agriculture, including Undersecretary Agnes Catherine Miranda, the Department of Science and Technology, the local government of Ilocos Norte, Agusan del Sur, and Agusan Del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology also participated in the study visit. In Canberra, the delegation met officials from the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) led by CEO Professor Wendy Umberger, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) to learn best practices from Australia’s National Soil Strategy and exchange views on soil innovation, information systems and analytical methods as well as soil-related investments. Rep. Eddiebong Plaza noted the opportunities and challenges in developing the country’s own national soil health strategy and the need to pursue science-based approaches in its agricultural practices.  He also referred to the MOU between the Philippines and Australia on furthering cooperation on the national soil health strategy signed during the meeting between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Albanese in Manila in September 2023. Rep. Plaza highlighted…

Consul Sheryll Gabutero providing guest remarks at the SBFACG celebration of Paskong Pinoy Christmas Party on 2 December 2023 at Kingaroy. accompanied by Events by Nikki and Gilbert Ordalies, friends of the Consulate. Philippine Consulate looks forward to engaging with our large Filipino community in South Burnett and beyond.

The Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland Atty. Sheryll Gabutero’s attendance at the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Australia-Philippines (CCIAP) end of year event at Littles Lawyers 29th November 2023.

The Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland Atty. Sheryll Gabutero’s attendance at the Australia Philippines Business Council Year-End Celebration on 28 November 2023 at Rydges World Square, Sydney.

Attendance by Sir Bob Alipalo, JP KCR Area Commander, Eastern Australia, Lady Josephine Quintero (great grand-niece of national hero Dr Jose Rizal) and Atty. Alfe Roder on 17th November 2023. Knights of Rizal is an Order of Chivalry from the Philippines, created to honor and uphold the ideals of Philippine national hero José Rizal.

The mobile consular team processed 137 passport applications and administered the oath of allegiance of 42 Filipinos who reacquired their Filipino citizenship through Republic Act No 9225 or the Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act of 2003. Registration for overseas voting for the 2025 national elections was made available to Filipinos in Brisbane. The Embassy team was composed of Consul Corina Reyes, Ms. Irene Sadang, Mrs. Virginia Gavino and Mr. Rodrigo Gavino. Migrant Workers Office-Canberra representative Ms. Julienne Cavida facilitated contract verification services and provided post-arrival orientation seminar (PAOS) to 52 workers based in Queensland. She also held worksite visits to engage employers and Filipino workers.  The Embassy worked with the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Brisbane led by Consul Sheryll Gabutero to ensure an organized and productive consular mission. We would like to thank all the volunteers and honorary staff that gave their time during the operation of this consular mission.

CANBERRA, Australia (29 November 2023) – The Embassy of the Philippines in Canberra completed its second mobile consular mission in Brisbane, Queensland on 21 to 24 November 2023. This is the first time that the Embassy held two mobile consular missions in Brisbane in one year. The mobile consular team processed 137 passport applications and administered the oath of allegiance of 42 Filipinos who reacquired their Filipino citizenship through Republic Act No 9225 or the Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act of 2003. Registration for overseas voting for the 2025 national elections was made available to Filipinos in Brisbane.  Based on the 2021 Australian census, there are over 73,000 Filipinos and Australians of Filipino descent in the State of Queensland. As a result of the ten-year validity of Philippine passports that was began in 2018, the Embassy noted the declining demand for passport renewal services. In September 2022, the mobile mission processed 657 passport applications while in August 2023, there were 327 passport applicants served. Passport renewal services are available for all Filipinos in Australia at the Embassy of the Philippines in Canberra and Consulates General in Sydney and Melbourne. Regular mobile consular missions are held in Adelaide, Brisbane, Darwin, Hobart and Perth that provide passport renewal services. The Embassy team was composed of Consul Corina Reyes, Ms. Irene Sadang, Mrs. Virginia Gavino and Mr. Rodrigo Gavino. Migrant Workers Office-Canberra representative Ms. Julienne Cavida facilitated contract verification services and provided post-arrival orientation seminar (PAOS) to 52 workers based in Queensland. She also held worksite visits to…

9 November 2023, Courtesy call with Consul-General of Philippines to Nepal, Consul-General Mr. Suraj Vaidya, Kathmandu.

League of Cities of the Philippines and League of Municipalities Official Delegation on 12 October 2023 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC), and the 13 October 2023 at Littles Lawyers, 1 Eagle St. Brisbane, QLD

Attendance by Philippine Consulate staff, Edgardo (Alex) Aclan, in celebration of the 112nd national day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) hosted by Director-General Hou-Lu William Fan of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, Brisbane, at SunPAC, Sunnybank Brisbane, Thursday, 5th October 2023.

Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA), Queensland, Annual Dinner, with Senator the Honorary Murray Watt, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Minister for Emergency Management and Queensland State Director of Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ms Melissa O’Rouke, Queensland Parliament House, Thursday, 5 October 2023.

The Philippine Consulate Queensland’s Honorary Consul, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero and Assistant to Consul, Shemaiah Buenvenida’s attendance to the German National Day. Remarks made by the Honourable Leanne Linard MP (Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Minister for Science and Minister for Multicultural Affairs), John-Paul Langbroek (Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships), Cr Greg Adermann (Councillor for Pullenvale Ward and representing Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner), and attendance by Jon Krause MP (Member for Scenic Rim), We would like to acknowledge our fellow Kababayan Mr. Gary and Mrs. Gabriella Fooks, and their son, Francis, who performed with the German Youth Choir.

Attendance by the Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero and Honorary staff Gemma Cruz Goutos, Jesusa Say Pamittan Limpin, and Shemaiah Buenvenida in celebration of the feast day of our first Filipino saint and martyr, Saint Lorenzo Ruiz.Holy mass conducted by Fr. Brian Redondo Pyro Technique (main celebrant), Fr. Warren Padilla, PACEM (homilist) and Fr. Roque Maguinsay Rock Mackenzie (Concelebrants).Program included community lunch, presentations from multiple Filipino communities from the Darling Downs and beyond and attendance and participation from Councillors from Toowoomba Regional Council, Cr James O’Shea (Environment and Community Committee Chair), Cr Carol Taylor (Chair of the Infrastructure), Cr Kerry Shine and former Mayor of Toowoomba Paul Antonio.We would like to acknowledge the following community leaders and organisations that made a remarkable contribution in the success of the event:

A successful round table meeting of Filipino Community organisations with the Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero at the Philippine Consulate Office, Brisbane.We acknowledge and thank all the Philippine Community leaders/representatives present:         Representative: Mr. Roy Joseph Roberto         Representatives: Ms. Jacqueline Landicho and Mr. Alvin Bosque         Representatives: Mr. Zandro Lagman and Ms. Gwyneth De Guia        Representative for Gold Coast Filipino Australian Performing Arts Ensemble: Ms. Sgj Rosal-Nield       Representative for Gold Coast Fil-Aus Basketball League: Mr. Louie Caluag       Representative for Fil-Aust GC 2010 : Tess Liu        Representative: Gina Luck, Reena Gabutero-Johnson and Josyl Miranda         Representatives: Gina Luck and Rejoice Guevara-Thomson        Representatives: Mr. Chris Ramos CA and Mr. William Xeng Ritua        Representatives: Ms. Dixie Morante, Ms. Gemma Cruz Goutos and Ms. Sharon Quizon Olofernes        Representatives: Ms. Rejoice Guevara-Thomson and Ms. Nikki Domingo        Representatives: Ms. Lourdes Somodio Dolendo and Mr. Marlon Dolendo​           Representative: Mr. Jomar Nieva        Representative: Ms. Maria Lourdes Elicano Parkinson         Representatives: Ms. Maria Lourdes Elicano Parkinson and Ms. Roem Anne Andea        Representative: Mena Theresa Edmondstone        Representative: Edwin John Pamoga

Visit to the Philippine Consulate Office by Hon. Shayne Neumann MP, Member for Blair, Chair of Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade with the Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero on 26 September 2023.

The attendance of Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty Sheryll Gabutero to 74th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China hosted by Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Brisbane Dr Ruan Zongze at Brisbane Convention Centre on 21 September 2023

Visit by Consul-General of the Philippines to the Northern Territory John Rivas in the Philippine Consulate Queensland Office with his wife Mrs. Edna Rivas and accompanied by friends of the Philippines, Mrs. Loida Morante and Mrs. Josyl Miranda, 19 September 2023

The Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero in FLIGNO’s soft launch of the “SanaAll” app (available on both iOS and android) at Alamat restaurant, Southport, 17th September 2023

14 September 2023 ​ Courtesy call by delegates from the City of Makati (Manila) and Asian Institute of Management (AIM), led by Vice-Mayor, Honourable VM Monique Lagdameo and facilitated by Professor Shermon Ortega Cruz and Jone Paul Mengullo of AIM, to Honorary Consul of Philippines to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero at the Philippine Consulate Office of Queensland in Fortitude Valley last Thursday, 14 September 2023. The Consulate Office comprising of Veronica Rowe, Jesusa Limpin, Shemaiah Buenvenida (Executive Assistant), Teisa Lanivia with coordination by Events by Nikki (Nikki Domingo), hosted a welcoming meeting discussing city relations and Filipino matters arising from the State. Vice-Mayor, Honourable Lagdameo was presented with local flowers from Brisbane.

14 September 2023 Visit by delegates from the City of Makati (Manila) and Asian Institute of Management (AIM), led by Vice-Mayor, Honorable VM Monique Lagdameo and facilitated by Professor Shermon Ortega Cruz and Jone Paul Mengullo of AIM, to the Right Honorable, the Lord Mayor of Brisbane, Councilor Adrian Schrinner’s Office, escorted by Executive Secretary for the Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Shemaiah Buenvenida and Ms. Nikki Domingo.  Brisbane City Council graciously, through the assistance of Garth Henderson (International Relations lead) and Nicole Andronicus (Director, Internal Relations and Multicultural Affairs) provided a presentation on best practices in maintaining peace and order in the city. City of Makati and City of Brisbane in fostering deeper relations, exchanges gifts from their respective cities.

Attendance by Honorary Consul Sheryll Gabutero as guest speaker to welcome and celebrate Philippines Australia Multicultural Association’s (PAMA) annual Springfest 2023 Festival at Springfield Lakes, 10 September 2023. Springfest 2023 celebrated the rich cultural diversity and heritage of South-East Asian nations by showcasing performances in song, music, dance, offering a plethora of cuisines and fireworks spectacular. Special mention to the President of PAMA, Mr. Jomar Nivea for bonding the community together and celebrating our diverse cultural background and to fellow community supporters, Honourable Milton Dick MP, Federal Member for Oxley/Speaker of Parliament, Mr Shane Neumann MP (Member for Blair), Ms Charis Mullen (Member for Jordan), Mr Lance McCallun MP (Member for Bundamba), Cr Paul Tally (Ipswich Division 2 Councillor), Ms. Rose Dash CCO of Multicultural Australia.  

28 August to 1 September 2023, Brisbane Mobile Consular Mission serving more than 600 Filipinos. The Philippine Embassy in Australia headed by Consul-General Aian Caringal, led a successful five-day mobile consular mission at Eatons Hill Hotel, Queensland serving over 600 Filipinos with the assistance of the Philippine Consulate Office of Queensland led by Consul Sheryll Gabutero and her honorary staff and Filipino Community leaders.  The mobile consular team processed 327 passport applications, provided notarial and civil registry services to 24 applicants, and administered the oath of allegiance to 122 Filipinos, including 13 minor children, who reacquired or retained their Filipino citizenship through Republic Act No 9225 or the Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act of 2003. 207 Filipinos availed of registration services for overseas voting for the 2025 national elections. The Embassy team was composed of Consul-General Aian Caringal, Mr. Rodrigo Gavino, Ms. Leonora De Ramos, and Mr. Jessie Lucas. Defense and Armed Forces Attachè (DAFA) Col. Alexander Gigantone and Assistant DAFA Col. Paul Anthony Aviquivil provided support to the conduct of the mission. Migrant Workers Office-Canberra OIC Mr. Oscar David facilitated contract verification services to 11 OFWs and provided post-arrival orientation seminar (PAOS) to 24 workers based in Queensland. The Philippine Consulate Office of Queensland was headed by Consul Sheryll Gabutero and assisted by Ms. Veronica “Bing” Rowe, Mr. Alex Aclan, Ms. Gemma Cruz Goutos, Ms. Jesusa Say Pamittan Limpin and Ms. Maiah Buenvenida, Ms. Nikki Domingo of Events by Nikki, Mr. Ernest John Ulep of E-sthetic by ejgulep and all the organizations who volunteered…

Last 18 August 2023, the Philippine Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero had the honour to meet and greet Philippine Science High School System scholars of the Department of Science and Technology, Philippines (DOST) at Kelvin Grove, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), comprising of 12 Doctor of Education students, 16 Master of Education, and 15 Australia Awards Fellows, headed by PSHS Executive Director, Lilia Habacon. The largest contingents of scholars from one country into an Australian university. The scholarship program is an initiative of Mr. Nelson Salangsang, a transformational education advocate, who supported the development of the scholarship and fellowship programs at QUT and recently awarded as Adjunct Professorship at QUT.

The first Philippine Consulate Student Open Forum at the Philippine Consulate Queensland Office, 14 August 2023. The Philippine Honorary Consul, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero initiated to invite students to participate and speakers talk about common concerns and queries of students in Queensland. Speakers: Ms. AJ and Ms. Kira of Las Islas Filipinas Education & Visa Services, Rohit Sharma from Migration Star, Chris Ramos from Nomad Business Guru for tax concerns, Nikki Domingo of Events by Nikki for Accommodation, Teisa Lanivia of Trinity York and Al Aguilar from Westpac.

12 August 2023, The Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero together with Ms. Jesusa Limpin’s attendance at the Pacific Victory War in the Pacific wreath laying and tour at U.S. 7th Fleet Officers’ Club (Limbless Soldiers’ Club). The Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland, Atty. Sheryll Gabutero receiving pin from the WW2 hero and battle of Leyte Veteran Len McLeod. The Qld Deputy President of RSL, Wendy Taylor was present, as well as John Burgess and Jill Burgess and other guests/members of RSL Queensland.

The Philippine Consulate Queensland’s attendance to the 5th anniversary of the Ilocano Ti Australia Brisbane. Attendance by Gemma Goutos, on behalf of the Philippine Honorary Consul to Queensland Sheryll Gabutero to Illocano group last 12 august 2023, meet and greet and celebration.