It is my pleasure to send warm greetings to readers of The Philippine Sentinel and Filipino communities across Sydney and New South Wales this Independence Day.
More than 90,000 people in the state have Filipino ancestry and Filipino Australians have made many cultural, sporting and economic contributions to our society.
The Philippines has become a modern and democratic force within the region since declaring independence in 1898 after defeating the Spanish at the Battle of Manila Bay.
The New South Wales Government welcomes the commitment Filipino Australians have shown toward fostering a harmonious and multicultural society.
I wish the Filipino community a peaceful and happy Independence Day.
MIKE BAIRD MP NSW Premier