On November 1, National Affiliation of Respectable and Responsible Associations’ (NARRA) held a successful information session on its initiative Philippine Australian Arts Culture and Innovation (PAACI) 500 Project, held at the Max Webber Library in Blacktown.
It was an afternoon of meaningful interaction and information sharing. The main aim of the gathering was the sharing of information on PAACI 500 project, the dream of building a facility that will have a 500-seat capacity in the main theatre and space
1. To provide a dedicated space for preserving, promoting, and celebrating Philippine arts, culture, and traditions.2. To serve as a hub for community engagement, fostering interaction and
understanding among various cultural groups.
3. To support innovation and creativity through cultural and artistic
programs, workshops, and events.
4. To offer educational programs and resources to enhance cultural
awareness and appreciation among the wider community.
5. To contribute to the local economy by attracting visitors, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses.
The special guests at the event included Councillor Jess Diaz, Councillor Alan Green, Councillor Dorothy Ann Villar and Blacktown Workers Club Director Demi Robinson. Each of them spoke and gave their strong support for the initiative. They all expressed their ‘seal of approval’ for the rationale and enjoined all present to help promote and participate in the project. 
(Standing L-R: Councillor Doroty Ann Villar, Councillor Jess Diaz, Councillor Allan Green;
Sitting: Blacktown Workers Club Director Demi Robinson)
The guests also highlighted the need to ensure that transparency and accountability are diligently put in place to preserve the trust and continued support of the community.
The presenters at the event were
* Joel Tungcab, NARRA’s Vice President and PAACI: Project
PAACI Chairman and Project Manager - Introduction to the Philippine-Australian Art & Innovation Centre vision
* John Tantoco - The 7-Year Roadmap to 2032; Donate a Brick Campaign Milestones, timeline, and how people can be part of building our legacy
* Kerwin Datu, Architect - Design Vision Presentation, process, design principles, and cultural authenticity in the PAACI Central
* Josh Santos - PAACI Pillars Matrix, NSW Government’s Plan for Western Sydney’s Arts, Culture, and Creative
The Emcee of the event was NARRA’s PRO, Ronna Guzman, who also did the acknowledgement of country and welcome to the event. Violi Calvert, Media Liaison, delivered the Invocation. This was followed by the inspiring video message of NARRA President, Marcus Rivera who was at the time starring in a stage play “Malacanang Made Us” being shown in Brisbane.
The afternoon also showcased the cultural aspect of the event with performances by Rita Agostino, who did ‘Gayong-Gayong’, a graceful native dance; Josh Santos’ inspiring rendition of ‘A Million Dreams’ after his talk; and singer-songwriter Justin Anda, who sang two of his original compositions, which mesmerised the audience.
An additional feature of the event was the drawing of the winner of the $25 raffle ticket, which included a return trip to the Philippines as the prize, donated by Nap Gines of Travel Lounge. This was conducted by Jimmy Lopez, NARRA’s founding President and PAACI’s Treasurer with the assistance of Lei Henson, who was the 2025 Mother of the Year awardee. The winning ticket was drawn electronically with the names entered in the databases of tickets sold. The lucky winner was Albie Prias, who is one of NARRA’s Directors, and donated towards the third prize of $2,000 for tickets drawn on February 1, 2026 at the NARRA Pamana Ball.
The presentations segment was followed by Q&A, networking and sharing of refreshments prepared by Josephine Tada, Plaza Filipino President.
We hope you can join the next PAACI information sharing event, which will be held on November 15, 2025 at the Peter Goodfellow Theatrette at the Penrith City Library, from 2-5pm. Be part of history and leave a legacy for the Filipino-Australian and the wider community.
