Preparations for the 5th Global Filipino Networking Convention are now underway, and it is promising to be the most dynamic assembly of global Filipinos yet.

            Set for September 6-8, 2007 at The Holiday Inn Rooty Hill, NSW, participants are expected to come from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America, including prominent Filipino leaders and organizers from all over Australia.

            The convention theme “Fair Go for Filipino Empowerment” which stands for Filipino-Australian Integrated Response to Global Objectives, hopes to expand the discussion on the socio-economic and political entitlement due to all Filipinos working and living overseas.

            Also anticipated is the attendance of President Gloria Arroyo who will be attending the APEC Summit in the same month.

            “It’s historic on many levels,” says Mrs. Lolita Farmer, head of Global Filipinos. “Participation of overseas Pinoys is reaching critical mass and we want to harness and direct that to the platform that would be good for everyone,” she adds.

            Convention organizers FILCAA/PCC and GF Australia have identified speakers and panelists within the academe, business sector, Australian and Philippine diplomatic corps.

            “We want to engage the global Filipino community in a relevant discussion that would lead to lasting outcomes. Just as we want our Kababayans to enjoy Sydney, we want to create strong and active partnerships, too,” says FILCAA president Malyn Andres-Chun.

            “We encourage everyone to participate, kung ano ang makakaya”, Malyn adds. It’s time for optimism and cooperation . . . we need Pinoys to come together now more than ever.”