02 July 2014 – Philippine Consul General Marichu Mauro, together with Vice Consul Helen Anne Sayo and Consulate General staff, travelled to Rimini to join the celebration of the Philippine Independence Day on June 29 by the different communities in the Emilia Romagna region.

The celebration started with a colorful parade by the different associations wherein participants proudly carried their banners and vibrant Filipino traditional attire. It was followed by a Holy Mass celebrated by Father Roger Cabillo at Chiesa della Resurezione. After the Mass, the Consul General was invited to cut the ribbon for the opening of booths. The different associations put up their booths decorated with native materials like bamboo. After visiting the booths, the different groups shared together delectable Filipino dishes for lunch.

An afternoon program was prepared by the various associations from Rimini, Ancona, Civitanova, Modena, and Forli-Cesena  to entertain the audience which included Italian guests as well.

In her remarks, Consul General Mauro urged the Filipinos, particularly the younger generation, to show and practice our Filipino traits of being hardworking, generous, accommodating to the Italian and other foreign communities. She emphasized that whatever we do reflects how we are as a community.

The celebration was indeed a demonstration of the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines displayed through cuisine, national attire, songs and dances. END