11 June 2015 - The Philippine Consulate General in Agana, in cooperation with the Filipino Ladies Association of Guam (FLAG) and the Guam Filipino Artists (GFA), started the first week of the month-long celebration of the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence on Guam by showcasing Philippine culture, arts and traditions.
On June 06, the Consulate General joined the Filipino Ladies Association of Guam (FLAG) in its annual Santacruzan held at the Agana Shopping Center. The festivity was held as a kick-off for the Philippine Independence month-long celebration. It aims to promote and share with the people of Guam the religiosity and the rich colorful cultural heritage and religious tradition of the Filipinos.
The colorful procession was joined by the beautiful little girls and elegant ladies representing the different Filipino associations on Guam as well as by the FLAG members and the winners of its Miss Sampaguita 2015 contest in their various historical-religious figures.
The highlight of the event is the participation of Guam First Lady Christine Calvo as Reyna Elena or grand queen, who was escorted by no less than Governor Eddie B. Calvo and a young Constantine.
The event was also made more colorful and significant with the participation of the other Guam Government officials and politicians who served as escorts or “consortes” of the Santacruzan “reynas” such as Senators V. Anthony Ada, Thomas Morrison, Frank B. Aguon, Jr. and Michael San Nicolas.
The 33rd Guam Legislature presented a plaque of appreciation to the Filipino Ladies Association of Guam (FLAG) in recognition of its efforts and creativity for organizing the Annual Santacruzan.
The Capizenos Association of Guam was awarded the winner for the Most Beautiful Arch and Most Represented Organization. For the Most Beautiful Gown Contest, a member of Guamerica Lions Club, Ms. Mercy Guevarra, won in the adult division, while Ms. Anna Marien Kitleen Marikit Gallardo-Rice, a pupil of Palomares Child Care Center, won in the youth division.
Philippine Consul General Marciano R. de Borja commended the FLAG members for their hard work and encouraged them to continue with their good work in promoting traditional Filipino heritage and values and the good image of the Philippines. END