Filipino Community in New York Kicks Off Kalayaan 2025 Festivities with Vibrant Parade in Manhattan
Members of the Bayanihan Association of the Capital District (left photo) and Gingoognons in the United States of America (right photo) perform along Madison Avenue in vibrant traditional attire, showcasing regional dances and cultural pride. (Photos by Sherlyn Roxas)
NEW YORK 05 June 2025 — Hundreds of Filipino-Americans filled Madison Avenue in Manhattan on 01 June 2025 for the 35th Philippine Independence Day Parade, the largest celebration of its kind outside the Philippines. Organized by the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI) with the support of the Philippine Consulate General in New York, the parade marked the start of this year’s commemorative festivities in the city.
In his remarks, Philippine Consul General in New York Senen T. Mangalile underscored the significance of the annual celebration, noting that for over three decades, it has served to honor the Filipino identity and diaspora in the U.S., foster unity among communities, and recognize the contributions of Filipino-Americans in the country. He encouraged the community to take pride in its roots and remain forward-looking, stating, “As we walk down Madison Avenue, let us be proud of our heritage and confident in our future in this country.”
The event brought together Filipino community organizations and local partners, many of whom marched in traditional attire representing their provincial hometowns. The route was lined with cheering spectators, waving flags and celebrating with music and dance.
Banda El Gobernador of Bacoor, Cavite, one of the Philippines’ oldest and most distinguished marching bands, performed along the route. This year also saw the first participation of a Philippine national sports team, as the Alas Pilipinas Men’s Volleyball Team joined the parade aboard a float and was warmly welcomed by the community.
At the close of the parade, the celebration continued at the corner of Madison Avenue and 26th Street with a lively street fair featuring Filipino food, crafts, and community services offered by local businesses and government units. Dedicated booths for top Philippine universities namely, Ateneo de Manila University, Cebu Institute of Technology-University, De La Salle University, University of the Philippines, and University of Santo Tomas were also present, with visiting officials engaging with interested paradegoers. The Philippine Department of Tourism-New York likewise set up a booth to promote the country’s top travel destinations.
Later in the afternoon, a concert was held featuring Filipino-American local artists, 4th Impact, The Voice Season 26 winner Sofronio Vasquez, Martin Nievera, and P-Pop girl group BINI, who all took part in the parade earlier in the day. Their performance, one of the most awaited parts of the program, drew an enthusiastic crowd of fans and onlookers.
Prior to the parade, a flag-raising ceremony took place at the Lobby Gallery of the Philippine Center. This was followed by a Thanksgiving Mass at Kalayaan Hall, presided over by Rev. Fr. Julian Jagudilla, OFM, who offered a homily and prayer for the Philippines and the Filipino community.
Culminating a full day of celebration, the annual parade has become more than a tradition. It reflects the growing presence and diversity of the Filipino community in New York. Each year builds on the last, offering new ways to come together, engage the next generation, and celebrate how far the community has come. END
(Left photo) The Voice Season 26 winner Sofronio Vasquez greets the crowd from his float during the parade. (Right photo) P-Pop girl group BINI energizes the stage with one of the most awaited performances of the day. (Photos by Sherlyn Roxas)
Consul General Senen T. Mangalile and Mme. Maria Fe Mangalile (fifth and fourth from left), Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla (sixth from left), PIDCI President Arman David (center), PIDCI Executive Director Nora Galleros (third from left), together with the Grand Marshal, Past Presidents, and Past Grand Marshals of PIDCI, lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the 35th Philippine Independence Day Parade in New York. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)
Banda El Gobernador (left photo) further adds festive rhythm to the parade, proudly representing Bacoor, Cavite, the Marching Band Capital of the Philippines. At the street fair (right photo), a crowd lines up for popular Filipino street food offerings. (Photos by Sherlyn Roxas)
The officers and staff of the Philippine Consulate General in New York are joined by their families during the parade. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)
For more information, visit https://www.newyorkpcg.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.newyorkpcg.org, https://www.facebook.com/PHLinNY/ or https://www.instagram.com/phinnewyork/.