All the Filipino groups and communities in Bathurst, the Central West and the Far West gathered in unity for a common purpose, joined by visitors from as far away as Sydney, including Sydney Philippine Consul General, Maria Teresa Taguiang and staff.

They celebrated the beginning of Christianity in the Philippines through the adoration of the icon of Sto Nino, the holy infant Jesus, brought by the Spanish and miraculously preserved in the city of Cebu.

The event began with a holy mass at the St Michael and St John's Cathedral, presided over by Father Paul Devitt, which included readings in a number of Filipino languages.

The traditional Sinulog celebration took place in the Parish Hall, featuring feasting, singing and colourful dancing.

“There are many sectors of Filipino society, but on Sunday, Filipinos stood, danced and sang together in an impressive display of unification,” event co-ordinator Nenita Weekes said.

“It was a harmonious celebration made possible by co-operation between the Cathedral, Couples for Christ, Bathurst Filipinos and Filipiniana Friends, the Philippines Consulate and support from our sponsors Marino and Ging Crisologo and Crestela Phillips.”