After the welcome remarks by outgoing PAMANA President Carmel Capati, the attendees sang "Lupang Hinirang," the Philippine National Anthem, part of which follows:
"Bayang magiliw
Perlas ng Silanganan
Alab ng puso, sa dibdib mo'y buhay
Lupang hinirang
Duyan ka ng magiting
Sa manlulupig
Di ka pasisiil ..."
Basically, it says "Beloved land, you are the pearl of the Orient, the fervor of our heart is in your chest. You are the cradle of the brave; to colonizers, we won't be subjugated."
The essence of the celebration was captured by this patriotic song. Most fitting, though, was the singing of "Star Spangled Banner" to signify the loyalty to the American flag and symbol of the Filipino-Americans' new homeland.
Incoming PAMANA President Ed Escall said he will serve the association the best he could, and asked everyone to help him do just that. He thanked the board for its hardwork and commitment to the mission of PAMANA.
The salu-salo (eating together) started with a prayer for blessings led by Ray Holloway. Ethnic Filipino food, including the favorite "sinigang na hipon" (shrimp in tamarind broth) and "lechon" plus desserts were shared by all. Cora Holloway expertly handled the food corner that day. Entertainment numbers were a delight to the senses. The PAMANA Dance Troupe showed it can dance Philippine favorites like Subli, Itik-Itik, Polkabal, and of course, Tinikling (the national dance of the Philippines) with the grace and emotions expressing love of culture. A salute to Lynelle Harrison is in order for a job well done in mentoring the dancers for this event.
Liberty Manabat, this writer's sister based in Chicago, sang two of her own compositions, accompanied on the piano by brother Ed, an accomplished jazz pianist.
After fun games for children, attendees enjoyed playing Bingo, while others just enjoyed updating each other about their families and happenings back home in the Philippines. Everyone is hoping that every year, the "Pista ng Kalayaan" will be celebrated by Filipinos everywhere. |
