Meet the Candidates Forum

The Filipino Australian Movement for Empowerment (FAME) will be holding a “MEET THE CANDIDATES” Forum to present all the Filipino-Australian candidates who are confirmed as running for the local elections on 13 September 2008.

This milestone event will be held at 7pm (sharp) on Thursday. 4 September 2008 at Corregidor Restaurant at Rooty Hill Road North, Rooty Hill. The venue was chosen to suit the majority of the candidates who are running for the Blacktown area.

The following are the 8 Filipino-Australian candidates who will be running at this year’s council elections: Malyn Andres-Chun (Independent) – Central ward, Canterbury Council; Jess Diaz (Liberal) – ward 3, Blacktown City Council; Dorothy del Villar (Labor) – ward 5, Blacktown City Council; Venus Priest (Liberal) – ward 4 – Blacktown City Council; Ariel Satorre (Greens) – Cabravale ward, Fairfield; Craig Wing (No Parking Metre Party) – South ward, Randwick Council; Rose Lay, Campbelltown; and Rolly Atienza (Labor) – Fairfield.

Councillor Irene Broad, the first Filipino-Australian to be elected for a council post, will also be running for re-election for Temora Shire Council. She ran as an independent in 2004 and won a council seat.

“Invitations are being extended to all candidates to speak on their vision and programs for their respective constituents. It will also be a chance for them to rally the community support they need in their respective areas,” said Chairperson, Cesar Bartolome.

Other candidates not included in the above-mentioned list are most welcome to address the Filipino-Australian community but it would be appreciated if the organizing committee was advised prior to the event.

“As a non-partisan group, whose only concern is seeing a Filipino-Australian elected to office, this “Meet The Candidates” forum will allow the community to see and hear what the candidates have to offer. Furthermore, it will allow the Filipino-Australian voter to make an informed decision and to cast their vote without fear or favor.” said Bartolome. This is a public service initiative by FAME, and all interested parties are welcome. Regrettably, no refreshments will be provided. The venue however provides meals and refreshments which is the attendees’ option.

For further information, please contact FAME chairperson, Cesar Bartolome on 0407 143 432 or FAME vice-chairperson, Bobby Lastica on 0400 885 389.

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