PRESS RELEASE | PR-207-2026
Singapore, 29 June 2026 – The Philippine Bayanihan Society Singapore (PBSS) gathered members of the Filipino community, past and present officers, volunteers, and partners for its “Moving Out, Moving On” event on 27 June 2026, marking the conclusion of the Bayanihan Centre’s chapter at its Pasir Panjang location as the lease of the premises comes to an end on 30 June 2026.
The gathering celebrated the legacy of the Bayanihan Centre, which, for the past twenty-five years, has served as a venue for educational, cultural, recreational, and community activities for Filipinos in Singapore. The program featured reflections on the history of the Centre, PBSS’ continuing vision and mission, and the Society’s plans as it transitions to new arrangements.
Consul General Joyleen E. Santos, who led the delegation comprising representatives from the Philippine Embassy in Singapore, Migrant Workers Office (MWO) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), conveyed the Embassy’s appreciation to PBSS, its officers, volunteers, staff, and community partners for their years of dedicated service.
In her remarks, Consul General Santos emphasized that while the Pasir Panjang chapter is coming to a close, the spirit of bayanihan continues. “The strength of the Filipino community in Singapore has never rested solely on the existence of one facility. It has always been found in the people, organizations, and partnerships that come together in service of one another. As one chapter closes, we look forward with optimism to new opportunities for engagement, cooperation, and community-building in the years to come,” she added.
She likewise reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to continue working closely with Filipino community organizations and stakeholders in promoting the welfare, unity, and empowerment of Filipinos in Singapore.
The event was attended by PBSS founders, former and current officers, led by its Honorary President Ms. Minerva Lau, as well as its founding President Ms. Jennie Chua, who joined members of the community in commemorating the Centre’s legacy and the contributions of generations of volunteers who helped build and sustain it over the years.
Adding a touch of nostalgia and fun, participants joined a lighthearted “Bring Me: Oldest Memorabilia”, game, where they shared treasured keepsakes and mementos that symbolized the Centre’s long and meaningful journey.
Looking ahead, PBSS shared its intention to continue its operations while identifying a new long-term home. The Society plans to sustain community engagement through a series of activities, including the launch of the PBSS Basketball Cup in August, the Bayanihan Walk in October, wellness activities, and other community programs. The PBSS expressed hope that a suitable permanent venue could be identified later this year.
As the Bayanihan Centre prepares to close its Pasir Panjang premises, the Philippine Embassy expressed confidence that the values of service, volunteerism, and community embodied by the Centre will continue beyond its physical location. The Embassy likewise looks forward to continuing its collaboration with PBSS and the wider Filipino community as they begin this new chapter. /END
