Sariaya Association of California , Board of Directors with Deputy Consul General of Philippines Consulate of Los Angeles Maria Alnee Gamble.
L-Right Benildo Tan -2nd Auditor, Myla Crisostomo Carranceja-1st Vice President, Asuncion Abarquez Ferrer- President,
Maria Alnee Gamble- Deputy Consul General of Philippines Consulate of Los Angeles, Lolita Freeman- 2nd Vice President,
Jojo Tan Basmayor- 1st Treasurer, Soledad Almarines – 2nd Treasurer, Gloidee Abcede – Secretary, Brian Ferrer – 1st Auditor, Bruce Freeman- Public Relations Officer
By: Leo Nobleza
On the evening of September 20, 2025, I was invited to witness the Sariaya Association of California’s 40th Anniversary gala at Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel where my dear friend, Asuncion ‘Sion’ Ferrer was Presented as the new president.
It was a meaningful evening as the Sariayahins proudly gathered, its members, friends and special guests to celebrate a night filled with cultural pride, accomplishments, achievements and shared aspirations. With deep ties to their hometown of Sariaya, Quezon, and meaningful and strong purpose here in California, they once again unite to honor their heritage and the milestones they have achieved together and plan future projects and development.
The evening commenced with a warm welcome address from our gracious hosts, Brian Ferrer and Myla Crisostomo Carranceja, setting the tone for a festive and heartfelt celebration. Followed by singing of the national anthems of United States and the Philippines, a tribute to our biocultural identity and the values we hold dear.
The new President, Asuncion ‘Sion’ Ferrer formally welcomed the attendees, expressing heartfelt gratitude of their presence and their continued support of Sariaya’s growing community in Southern California. A special highlight of the program was the introduction of new set of officers – dedicated individuals who have stepped forward to serve and lead with pride, passion and commitment.
Asuncion ‘Sion’ Ferrer beaming with pride presented the association’s past accomplishments, present goals and collective vision that drives the association moving forward. A video presentation of the accomplishments was played shortly. As of to date – 8 classrooms have already been built in elementary schools in Sariaya, Quezon, Philippines. And as Ate Sion mentioned in her speech, she envisions to build more classrooms with the help of every member’s contribution. She will make it worthy , of any amount given. She has a big family of teachers which started from her grandmother, the reason she is so passionate with this project, she further mentioned.
Part of the program was recognizing Sariayahins who made significant contributions to the association and to the community as a whole. The President’s award was given to Jimmy Caspio as well as The President’s Merit award to Cristy Ferrer Mecua and Lorie Gagolinan. The Sergio and Ronnie Crisostomo Award was given to Vivian Cadiz. These individuals fully deserved these awards.
A distinguished Guest of Honor representing the Philippines Consul General of Los Angeles graced the event. Deputy Consul General Mrs. Maria Alnee Gamble represented Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz who was in Phoenix, AZ during that time.
Deputy Consul General Maria Alnee applauds the Sariaya Association’s strong and solid foundation which has been in existence for 40 years. She also hopes that the young generations in the likes of Brian and Myla and the younger generations will continue the association’s legacy.
The evening continued with a celebration of Filipino culture through various performances which include the classic Carinosa dance, a lively and colorful expression of traditional filipino courtship. Followed by a Karate demonstration by Angeline and Jonathan Carranceja, showcasing discipline and artistry. The energy continued with a dance presentation by Lolita Freeman, adding grace and flair to the cultural showcase.
Finally, the evening ended with a Dance Party where everyone was invited to share in the joy of community, music, and camaraderie.
The event was well attended by 250 people.
This association is more than an organization – it is a family bonded by shared history, mutual respect, love of thy neighbor and a vision for a brighter future!
Kudos to Ate Sion Ferrer and the past and present officers for doing a job well done!
Mabuhay ang Sariaya Association! Mabuhay ang ating komunidad!
Short bio:
Leo Nobleza is a Los Angeles resident and currently working in the Finance Office of Orthopaedic Surgery at UCLA for 14 years now. He is also an active volunteer at the music ministry of St. Brendan Catholic Church and part of the Leadership Team at St. Brendan Parish. Additionally, an active member of Filipino Cursillos in Christianity Los Angeles.
