09 December 2013 – Amidst relief and fundraising activities in the aftermath of super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), the Filipino community in the tri-state area begun the nine-day celebration of the second annual Panunuluyan sa Konsulado last December 04.
Organized by the Philippine Consulate General in New York, partner organizations Coalition of Philippine Alumni Association in Tri-State, Christian Life Community, UNSCR-Philippine Cultural Society, Ligaya Cultural Choir, Christian Life Community, San Lorenzo Ruiz Choir, and UP Alumni and Friends Rondalla presented a musical re-enactment of the Nativity Play.
Consul General Mario L. De Leon, Jr. delivered the welcome remarks during the event, wherein he likened Joseph and Mary’s difficult and laborious journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem to that of the Philippines’ experience this year. He pinpointed the national security issues that befell the country, as well as the natural disasters that devastated the islands, the biggest of which was Yolanda. He stressed that persistence and faith should be the guiding values of the community so that “we may continue to reach out to our kababayans.”
Fr. Patrick Longalong, Filipino parochial vicar of Our Lady of Snows in Floral Park, New York gave an inspiring reflection to those present. He suggested that the community offer the Panunuluyan celebration to the Lord for the healing of the wounded and comfort of the grieving from the typhoon. He advised the crowd that in order to find cure and recovery from the miseries of the world, “we must strengthen our faith and increase our hope” that the Lord will deliver His promise.
The Panunuluyan is a Filipino Christmas tradition held in churches in the Philippines for nine days leading to Christmas Eve. It depicts Joseph and Mary’s travel to Bethlehem, on the night of Christ’s birth, and the struggles they faced along the way. The Panunuluyan sa Konsulado is celebrated this year from December 4 to 12 at the Philippine Center. Different Filipino community organizations take turns in sponsoring for performances and a simple gathering each evening. For more details, please go to www.facebook.com/PHConsulateNY. END
