About FLSC

The Filipino Language School of Canberra (FLSC), trading name of the Learning Filipino Together (LFT) came about as an idea through friendly discussions in 2009. We observed that our young children who have been here for less than three years have become ‘receiving bilinguals’ – they understand parents talking in Filipino but respond only in English.

An opportunity came for us to attend the Bilingual Forum on 21 February 2010 organised by the Canberra Bilingual Alliance of the University of Canberra. We realised that there were no local Filipino language school. We enlisted our interest on having a school and became part of the Canberra Bilingual Alliance mailing list. Since then, we have received information on other Filipino language schools in Australia, the ACT Multicultural Community Languages Grants and others. We applied for the language grant and successfully obtained funding for the 2010-2011 financial year for the establishment of Learning Filipino Together (LFT). This led us to affirm that we can realistically set up a language school of our own and raise our children in a bilingual or even multilingual environment.

Our Vision

To establish a premier Filipino community language school managed and operated by like-minded volunteers in partnership with families and communities.

Volunteer members and teachers working collectively to realise the importance of children growing up bilingual or multilingual to family, community and the Australian society.

Our Mission

To provide quality Filipino language lessons, promote cultural awareness and better understanding of the Filipino heritage to our students including children of mixed Australian – Filipino marriages in a safe and inclusive environment.

About The School

Established in 2010, Learning Filipino Together (LFT) is a not-for-profit organisation that manages The Filipino Language School of Canberra (FLSC). FLSC actively promotes Filipino language and culture through a structured and dynamic educational setting which includes community dance and song performances. FLSC offers classes for junior and senior students at Theo Notaras Multicultural Centre, Civic ACT during Sundays from 2:00-4:00pm. Conversational classes for adults are held in Civic or as arranged by the teachers. One-on-one sessions in all dialects are also available on request.

The organisation is run solely by volunteer members. Many members are parents of children involved in the program.In addition to holding weekly classes, LFT also actively participates in various events within the Filipino and wider Canberra communities. These events include the annual Philippine’s Embassy Christmas celebration, the Philippine Independence Day Celebration, the Filipino Heritage Day and the National Multicultural Festival in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

LFT is a member of the ACT Community Language Schools Association (ACTCLSA), the umbrella body through which the ACT government provides funding support to the community language schools.

In early 2014, the Executive Committee had decided to use the trading name “FILIPINO LANGUAGE SCHOOL OF CANBERRA” in all print and website related material including various documents. “Learning Filipino Together” is retained as the name of the not-for-profit community organisation and registered with ATO ABN, ACT’s Office of Regulatory Services and other government institutions.

FLSC Executive Committee Members

Arnel Basas

President

Teacher Arnel began his journey as a volunteer educator in late 2013, leveraging his expertise as a Filipino linguist and native speaker in his workplace. He actively participated in various school activities and managed the Southside class, a mixed-age group at Erindale (Wanniassa) for several terms in 2015. Following this, he led the school for several years before temporarily leaving Canberra for work, eventually returning in 2022 to his current role. His leadership of the Southside classes and subsequent roles demonstrate his commitment to education and community service. In 2023, Arnel completed the  inaugural class of the SICLE Foundation Program, organized by the ACT Community Languages Schools Association (ACTCLSA). Originally from Tacloban City, Leyte, where Arnel earned his degree in Civil Engineering before pursuing postgraduate studies at the University of New South Wales in 2005. His decision to migrate to Australia with his wife, Amie, and their two children has proven to be the best choice for their family. Arnel’s journey is a testament to his dedication to both his professional aspirations and his cultural heritage.
Deo Ramos

Vice-President

Teacher Deo hails from Bangued, Abra, in the Philippines, where he has cultivated a deep passion for education and ancient Filipino writing systems, particularly Baybayin and Kur-itan/Kurditan. His professional background includes teaching at the Divine Word College of Bangued (DWCB) and working with the Department of Education, Schools Division of Abra (DepEd-Abra). Currently, he shares his knowledge and enthusiasm as a teacher in the FLSC adult class, continuing to promote Filipino culture and language. His dedication to preserving and teaching these ancient writing systems reflects his commitment to cultural heritage and education.

Rhodz Toledo

Secretary

Teacher Rhodz has an extensive teaching background, having earned her Bachelor in Secondary Education from the University of Iloilo in Iloilo City. With 18 years of teaching experience in the Philippines, she has contributed to various educational institutions, including Leonides S. Virata Memorial School in Rio Tuba, Bataraza, Palawan, Holy Trinity University in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Rizal Technological University in Mandaluyong City, and Trinity University of Asia in Quezon City. After moving to Australia in September 2016, she began teaching at FLSC in October of the same year. Currently, she is dedicated to educating students at beginner and junior levels, bringing her wealth of experience and passion for teaching to her new community.

Issa Delos Santos

Treasurer

Teacher Clarissa is a graduate of Hotel and Restaurant Administration from the University of the Philippines. After migrating to Australia in 2003, she has built a successful career in the food industry, accumulating over 20 years of experience. Currently, she plays a vital role in the educational environment by supporting teachers in guiding students’ participation during school activities and presentations. Her background in hospitality and her commitment to fostering student engagement contribute significantly to the learning experience of students and teachers alike.

Myrna Henkel

Member

Teacher Myrna is a dedicated and passionate Filipino language teacher with a remarkable legacy of promoting Filipino culture. Since the 1980s, she has been instrumental in founding language schools and has shared her expertise in Canberra’s primary schools. With teaching qualifications from both the Philippines and Australia, Myrna has effectively bridged cultural and educational gaps, enriching the lives of her students. Beyond her teaching, she is celebrated for her social nature and culinary skills, particularly in Filipino cuisine. Her musical talents, including playing the banduria, keyboard, and organ, further highlight her multifaceted contributions. Myrna’s enduring impact on education and culture has made her a beloved and respected figure within Canberra’s Filipino community.

Sharon Freduenstein

Member

Teacher Sharon hails from Leyte, Philippines, and has an impressive educational background. She earned her Bachelor of Laws from DVOREF in Tacloban City, Leyte, in 2006. Additionally, she holds a Certificate III in Spoken and Written English from Navitas English Pty Ltd. in New South Wales (2013) and a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care from CIT Woden (2014). Sharon has previously taught the Southside mixed group classes at the Woden Library, where she utilized her diverse qualifications to support and educate her students. Her commitment to education and her rich background make her a valuable asset to her community.

Kotch Velasquez

Public Officer

Kotch, originally from Davao, now resides in Bonner, ACT, with her husband Medwin and their four lovely daughters. Known for her hardworking, dedicated, and methodical nature, she is a founding member and current officer of the Filipino Language School of Canberra, established in 2010. Kotch’s professional journey includes her current role with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, following her tenure at the Conservation Planning and Research of the ACT government. Her ability to juggle various roles at home, work, and in voluntary organizations, including her local Catholic parish, often prompts admiration and the question, “How does she do it?” Despite her petite stature, Kotch is a proud Filipino-Australian who is committed to raising her children to be bilingual, ensuring they maintain their Filipino identity while thriving in Australian society.

Angeline Caringal

School Principal

Teacher Angie was born and raised in Manila, Philippines. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s Degree, both from the Philippine Normal University. With over 10 years of teaching experience in the Philippines, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. In 2020, Angie joined the Filipino Language School of Canberra (FLSC) as a volunteer teacher and has since been actively involved in all its activities. Her dedication to education and her commitment to the community make her a valuable asset to the school and its students.

Our Teachers

We acknowledge the wonderful efforts and support of our current and past regular and casual teachers.

 

Current Teachers

  • Lodylyn Dakoulas
  • Angeline Caringal
  • Arnel Basas
  • Myrna Henkel

Casual Teachers

  • Rodelyn Toledo – Beginner Class
  • Sharon Freudenstein – Junior Class
  • Belen Arboleda – Adult Class
  • Deo Ramos – Adult Class
  • Je Macabanti – Adult Class
  • Tim Caringal – Combined Class

 

Past Teachers

  • Purkiss – Adult Class
  • Elma Kurban – Northside Beginner Class
  • Annabelle Redman – Northside Junior Class
  • Maylyn Salindo – Southside Beginner Class
  • Joyce Anne Pineda – Northside Junior Class
  • Misaela Leahy – Southside Beginner Class
  • Peter Cayton – adult class teacher for Terms 3 to 4 2015 and casual teacher for Northside.
  • Arnel Basas – regular teacher for Southside Multi-Age Class for Terms 1 & 2 SY 2015 and currently the FLSC President.
  • Sheila Flores – regular teacher for Southside Multi-Age Class from Term 1 2013 to Term 1 2014 and regular teacher for opening Adult Class Terms 2 to 4 2013.
  • Rachelle Velasquez – regular teacher for Northside Junior Children’s Class from Term 4 2013 to present, and one-on-one teacher on Cebuano/Bisaya dialect.
  • Alma Gunner – regular teacher for Southside Multi-Age Class from Terms 2 to 4 2014, formerly the FLSC Principal and Radio Presenter at 2xx 98.3 FM Radio The Filipino Language and Culture Radio Program.
  • Lucita Cynita Rago – regular teacher for Northside Senior Children’s class for Term 3 to 4 2013.
  • Josephine Mercado – regular teacher for Northside Junior Children’s Class from Term 4 2012 to Term 2 2013 at Gungahlin Library.
  • Jayson Lamcheck – regular teacher for Northside Senior Children’s Class from Term 4 2012 to Term 2 2013.
  • Gloria Ross – regular teacher for Northside Multi-Age Class from Term 4 2010 to Term 1 2012 of Northside Children’s Class at Palmerston Community Centre.
  • Jennifer Baui – regular teacher for Northside Multi-Age Class from Term 2 2012 to Term 3 2012 at Gungahlin Library.
  • Kristel Urbanski – regular teacher for Southside Multi-Age Class from Term 3 2011 to Term 4 2012 of Southside Children’s Class.

Casual Teachers

  • Anne “Ish” Abaygar
  • Gina Aljecera
  • Catherine Diamampo
  • Jodi Garcia (from Term 2 2014)
  • Alvin Mendoza
  • Kikay Ortega
  • Misael Racines
  • Jennifer Ramos