11 July 2016 – In keeping the spirit of Philippine Independence and Filipino-American friendship alive, celebrations with the international community and mainstream American society were spearheaded by the Philippine Consulate General in New York.
On June 08, a reception for the diplomatic community, partners in the business sector, members of the academe and media people in commemoration of the 118th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center in Manhattan, New York. Co-hosted by the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce, the occasion also marked the 70th year of establishment of Philippine-US bilateral ties.
In his speech, host Philippine Consul General to New York Mario De Leon, Jr. echoed the Independence message of Unity, Participation and Progress as achievements of the outgoing administration through good governance which translated to the Philippines’ socio-economic development.
Speaking to the international community, he expressed appreciation for the “healthy relations with all the countries we have diplomatic ties with, and (the country’s) positive image in the international community as a stalwart defender of the rule of law.” He also conveyed confidence in the incoming administration of President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s strict administration and the country’s sustained economic progress through his 8-point economic agenda.
Entertainment was provided by the Tribu Solangon Dance Troupe with their cultural suite of traditional dances from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The guests were treated to Filipino fare from Ugly Kitchen throughout the evening.
Filipino community celebrations with the local governments attesting to the uplifting presence of the Filipinos in the United States during the Independence Month were held in three flag raising events in New Jersey.
Jersey City Mayor Stephen Fulop was present along with Council President Rolando Lavarro at the Jersey City Council Chamber for the flag raising ceremony last June 01, organized by the Philippine-American Friendship Committee (PAFCOM).
Consul General Mario De Leon emphasized the emergence of the Filipino community in the state of New Jersey, citing the Filipino-Americans holding elected positions in the state, elevating the visibility of the Philippines in the mainstream US society.
A Proclamation honoring the celebration of Philippine Independence Day from Mayor Fulop was handed to PAFCOM and Consul General Mario De Leon.
On Independence Day itself on June 12, Filipino-Americans gathered for the Annual Parade in Passaic, preceded by a ceremony to honor the flag in front of City and County officials. Consul General de Leon and Passaic Mayor Dr. Alex Blanco jointly raised the Philippine flag. The officers and staff of the Consulate were also present to lend their support during the parade organized by the Philippine Day Organizing Committee.
In Hackensack, New Jersey last June 16 at the Bergen County Town Hall, the Filipino community was hosted by Mr. Steve Tanelli, Chairman of the Bergen County Board of Chosen Freeholders to honor the flag and celebrate their heritage. A Proclamation commending the Filipino community’s presence in the County was tendered to Consul General De Leon and the community.
Consul General De Leon remarked of the events, “We are proud to have the Philippine flag fly alongside the American flag in US government offices. It is a symbolic gesture of friendship, goodwill and appreciation – that the Filipinos are a welcome part of the New Jersey community and our contribution to the cultural diversity and thriving economy of New Jersey is recognized in the Filipino-Americans’ second home.” END
