Friends of the Philippines Society USA will celebrate Pride with a Benefit Cocktail Party on Saturday, June 26, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Friedman’s at the Edison in New York City.

The celebration will feature drag queen Andy Starling, and will include open bar, hors d’oeuvres  and music.  The fundraiser is to support Friends of the Philippines Society USA’s programs.

Friedman’s is located at 228 West 47th Street in New York City.  Tickets are $75 per person.  Payment can be made via Zelle or Venmo with [email protected] or 917-213-7907.

According to Jerry Sibal and Edwin Josue, founders of Friends, the aim of the organization is to create a “harmonious environment where we could embrace our differences and respect each other’s belief” with a vision “to curtail discrimination, develop cultural identity and alleviate social and economic barriers.”

Past highlights include Padayon, performed  by  Parangal,  the San Francisco-based Filipino Folk Dance Group;  One World One Voice, a classical  music  concert  featuring pianist Dingdong  Fiel; a  Zoom  panel discussion on the  500 Years Discovery of the Philippines  hosted by ABC’s Nina Pineda.  Friends – Art for Humanity Exhibition is scheduled for Fall 2021.

Friends was formed to promote and support understanding of the Philippines in the US by providing meaningful exchange of opportunities, connections and information through arts and culture, education, business and healthcare programs. For more information, visit  www.friendsphsusa.org.