22 July 2015 - In close partnership with the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco and the Filipino-American Community’s KalayaanSF Committee, a cultural expo was held in Union Square on June 27 to commemorate the 117th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence.
The outdoor event featured Filipino restaurants selling Philippine cuisine at Union Square; a marketplace featuring Filipino handicrafts, and multiple cultural performances from every side of Union Square. The KalayaanSF 2015 Committee also chose from among the Community “Kalayaan Heroes” who represent the business and socio-civic sectors, sports and the arts, and have displayed excellence in their respective fields.
In his welcome remarks, Philippine Consul General to San Francisco Henry S. Bensurto, Jr. said he was “proud to be in San Francisco, where the sense of Filipino nationalism is strong,” adding that “Filipinos in the Bay Area do not just have the numbers, but also the capacity to undertake a cultural exposition showcasing Filipino culture, handicrafts, and food right at the heart of San Francisco City.” He encouraged the Community to keep alive the heritage, culture and traditions of the Philippines in the U.S., so that the next generations of FilAms are able to develop their identity and discover their Filipino roots.
Senate President Franklin Drilon encouraged the Filipino Community to avail of dual citizenship, as well as register for overseas voting, in light of the imminent Presidential election.
The event culminated in TFC Hour, where partner and sponsor ABS-CBN and The Filipino Channel held a 1.5 hour show featuring talents such as American Idol finalist Jessica Sanchez, super selfie artist Gab Valenciano, and cellist Matthew John Ignacio.
This is the third and last major event in a series to celebrate the 117th anniversary of Philippine Independence, which began with an Evening Gala at the San Francisco City Hall on June 12, followed by SangDiwa, an arts forum and exhibition at the Philippine Center’s Kalayaan Hall on June 20. Several thousands of Filipinos and residents and locals of the Bay Area were at Union Square in the course of the whole-day event. END