The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) are exploring a partnership to expand youth diaspora engagement programs in Australia, aimed at deepening cultural and civic connections among second-generation Filipinos.
The collaboration was initiated by Philippine Consul General Jesus “Gary” Domingo of the Philippine Consulate in Melbourne, who expressed interest in linking the CFO’s Youth Leaders in the Diaspora (YouLeaD) Program with the DFA’s Youth Volunteer Ambassadors Externship Programme. The proposal was discussed during the Filipino Communities Council of Australia (FILCCA) 17th Biennial National Conference.
If finalized, the partnership will combine the CFO’s cultural immersion initiatives with the DFA’s diplomatic outreach, creating broader opportunities for young Filipino-Australians to connect with their heritage while engaging in public service.
Representing the CFO, Ms. Lindsay Mercado presented the agency’s key diaspora programs, including BaLinkBayan, LINKAPIL (Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino), and the 1343 Actionline Against Human Trafficking. Community participants expressed strong interest in expanding YouLeaD to reach younger Filipino children aged 4 to 13.
Philippine Ambassador to Australia Antonio Morales and Consul General Domingo both underscored the importance of empowerment and unity within Filipino communities in Australia. FILCCA President Agnes Cabe and Assistant Minister Hermann Vorster MP also highlighted the role of the Filipino diaspora in fostering multicultural collaboration.
The day’s events culminated in a gala night celebrating Filipino innovation and community spirit — a theme captured by Honorary Consul Carmen Garcia AM, who described it as a “Return on Involvement.”
