New York City witnessed an early but grand commemoration of the 125th Philippine Independence Day last week, marked by a series of memorable events that showcased the rich heritage and unity of the Filipino American community.
The celebrations kicked off with an event at the State Capitol in Albany, led by Assemblymember Steven Raga, who made history as the first elected Filipino American in the state of New York. More than a hundred Filipino Americans, some traveling from as far as New York City and New Jersey, joined the gathering which was also attended by the growing population of Filipinos in Albany and neighboring cities.
Adding to the significance of the celebrations was the inaugural Independence Cruise along the Hudson and East Rivers sponsored by the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDC). Distinguished personalities such as Philippine Senator Risa Hontiveros, Mayor Alfred Benitez of Bacolod City, and notable celebrities like Cesar Montano and Xian Lim graced the occasion. This unique event allowed attendees to revel in the scenic beauty of New York City’s iconic waterways while celebrating their shared heritage.
On Sunday, June 4, Filipino Americans took over Madison Avenue in midtown Manhattan.
The 125th Philippine Independence Anniversary Commemoration Parade traversed Madison Avenue from 38th to 26th Street, captivating the attention of hundreds of spectators. The parade showcased an impressive array of almost 150 floats and marching groups, including the enthralling MassKara group of dancers who journeyed from Bacolod City in the Philippines.
Bedecked in vibrant and captivating costumes, the performers brought the spirit of the MassKara Festival to the Empire State – from the State Capitol in Albany to the waterways of the Hudson and East Rivers to the bustling streets of New York.
A noteworthy presence in the parade was Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel, the first Filipino American to be crowned Miss Universe. Riding atop a float, Gabriel proudly waved the Philippine flag and displayed her Filipino heritage, serving as an inspiration to the Filipino American community and beyond.
Onstage later on, Gabriel expressed her gratitude to the Filipino American community for supporting her journey.
“I just want to thank everybody and we need to continue to share our stories about how amazing Filipinos are; we need to continue to write the narrative. I am so thankful to be standing on this stage to be able to represent our culture,” she said. “Y’all have supported me through Miss Texas, Miss USA and now Miss Universe so maraming, maraming salamat sa support.”
Homegrown beauty queens – Miss Universe 2010 4th runner-up Venus Raj and Miss World 2013 Megan Young – attended the festivities as well.
Among the dignitaries who graced the parade’s opening ceremonies were Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, Ambassador Antonio Lagdameo, New York Senator Charles Schumer, Mayor Eric Adams, Consul General Senen Mangalile, Senator Risa Hontiveros, Governor Christian Noveras of Aurora Province, Mayor Arvin Amatorio of Bergenfield, New Jersey, Mayor
Alberto Benitez of Bacolod City, Mayor Erick Cañosa of Gingoog City, PIDCI President Nora Galleros, and Grand Marshall Dr. Dely Go. Their presence symbolized the strong bonds between the Philippines, the city of New York, and the Filipino American community, reinforcing the significance of the occasion.
“My biggest message, like that of ConGen Mangalile, is let’s take pride in our history, let’s never tire of trying to build yung pagkakaisa and bayanihan among each other now, in spite of the challenges,” Sen. Hontiveros told the Fil-Am media at the sidelines of the event on Saturday, June 3. “And let’s look forward with hope and commitment to the better future that our whole country deserves,”
For the past 33 years, PIDC and the Philippine Consulate General New York have been running the parade and festival along Madison Avenue. The Philippine Independence Day parade has been a cherished tradition held on the first Sunday of June.
Widely regarded as the largest celebration of its kind outside the Philippines, the parade serves as a platform for Filipino Americans to proudly showcase their culture, traditions, and national pride.
Complementing the parade is a vibrant street fair, where participants can indulge in authentic Filipino dishes from various vendors and purchase traditional attire such as Barong Tagalogs, ternos, and other Philippine-made accessories.
The street fair witnessed an overwhelming response, with eager attendees forming long lines at food stalls even before their booths opened. Savory delights from renowned vendors like So Sarap (classic street food like barbecued pork, isaw (pork and chicken intestine, and the most trending of all in the homeland today, grilled balut served with chili garlic), Patok By Rach (known for their delectable lechon bell), Daniel Corpuz (offering delightful desserts and chocolate treats), Kape’t Torta (serving pan de sal, ensaymada, and torta), and Fritzie’s and Sisig ng Bayan (offering beloved Filipino dishes like sisig, adobo, and pancit) attracted many, offering a taste of Filipino street food nostalgia and classic home-cooked dishes.
Aside from indulging in culinary delights, spectators also flocked to the stage to witness the cultural festival which featured captivating performances by local and Philippine-based talents.
The all-Filipino cast of Here Lies Love, a Broadway musical portraying the rise and fall of Imelda Marcos, enthralled the audience. The powerful voice of The Voice Philippines winner Mitoy Yonting and the presence of actors Cesar Montano and Xian Lim and comedians Boobsie & Tekla further added to the entertainment. These performances served as a testament to the immense talent within the Filipino community.
The historic Philippine Independence Day celebrations in New York highlighted the profound pride, unity, and cultural significance of the Filipino American community. Through events like these, community members not only commemorate their homeland’s independence but also underscored their valuable contributions to the multicultural fabric of American society. n
