Global Filipinos-Australia
“Nearly eight million or 1 in every 10 Filipinos is abroad. In 2003, overseas
foreign workers ploughed
back $7.6 billion in remittances.
An estimated 7.4 million overseas workers will be eligible to vote in the 2007
presidential elections.”
Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism
Organising and harnessing the political and economic power of Filipinos around
the world is the unique and herculean undertaking of one organisation.
In this part of the world, the task lies with Global Filipinos-Australia.
Global Filipinos-Australia envisions “a responsive and committed global
community of unified and empowered Filipinos participating in Philippine
mainstream activities as well as asserting their positions in the international
marketplace.”
“The most effective way to bring us all together is through networking
with each other, sharing our individual and collective experiences.”
This is according to Mrs. Lolita Farmer, Chairwoman and convenor of
Global Filipinos-Australia. Mrs. Farmer is also the first Filipino member
of the Order of Australia. An achievement and merit of the highest order
given for service to Australia and the community at large.
“Global Filipinos- Australia does not intend to supplant other organizations.
We want to identify the common grounds where we can work together for
a common purpose,” adds Mrs. Farmer.
Global Filipinos-Australia (GF-Aus) is designed to serve as a common
venue for Filipinos in Australia to discuss issues, and formulate policies
and strategies towards building alliances with Filipino communities
overseas.
“We want to be part of a global community of empowered Pinoys. We’re
very blessed here in Australia. Our combined strength could do a lot
of good for the Philippines,” says Arturo Sayas, elected Vice-chairman.
