NEW YORK CITY — A fusion of dance, music and fashion celebrated various regions of the Philippines at a fundraising for a 17-year-old Filipino summer cultural school and other educational programs.
The Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America (AFTA) Inc. held Pagdiriwang ng Kulturang Pilipino May 23 at the Astoria World Manor to support the organization’s educational projects.
A modern twist to Filipiniana attire using Banaca, banana fiber wrap designed by Ditta Sandico Ong, paired with a woven wrap from Vigan City, modeled by educators Carol Tanjutco and Pasquale Martine Jose Quines. PHOTO BY LUZ DARA VALCONCHA
These include Balikturo, classroom donation to the Philippines and the summer class Paaralan sa Konsulado, now on its 17th year of offering cultural and language learning to American-born children in the Northeast.
Teachers, community members and supporters of cultural education participated in the celebrations. Conductor-guitarist Michael Dadap, a 2006 “Pamana ng Lahi” presidential awardee, played instrumental kundiman, while special education teacher Ernesto Pamolarco Jr. sang famous harana songs to Fil-Am artist Kay Habana, who in turn, rendered classic ballads in Tagalog. A 10-year- old Fil-Am, Khara Angela Inot, wowed everybody with Waray-waray regional songs.
Tribal Igorot costumes modeled by Ally Castillo (center) and AFTA volunteers. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
AFTA Vice President Nitz Hingpis announced the highlight of the afternoon program, a fashion show by the teachers and volunteers presenting tribal Igorot wear and modern Filipiniana attire, using indigenous materials.
Boleros made of banig (handwoven mats) mixed and matched with long gowns, gave a new look to the traditional terno, made popular by the former first lady Imelda Marcos. Banana fiber wraps and handwoven sarongs were also showcased as versatile options for Filipino-themed celebrations.
Cultural dances from southern Philippines, choreographed by Nolly Ceballos of the MSU eVillage Company, a group of alumni from Mindanao State University, performed Kapped Tendong,
ESL teacher Ricky Mendoza choreographed Habanera Botolena dance moves by AFTA Dance Ensemble. A new group, Philippine Heritage Center, presented a lively Polka Sa Nayon.
All costumes depicted the vibrant lives of Filipinos, refreshing eye-openers for the young Fil-Am generation born and raised in the United States.
AFTA presented a colorful embroidered terno worn by teacher Rhudge Cajigas, accessorized with a handmade umbrella, during a celebration of Philippine culture. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
A neo-ethnic inspired bolero made from “banig” designed by Nick Guarino of Tacloban City, worn by AFTA member Magdalena Lavesores. PHOTO BY LUZ DARA VALCONCHA
AFTA President Dr. Raul Cajigas announced the opening of the 17th Paaralan Sa Konsulado, in coordination with the Philippine Consulate General of New York, represented by Cultural Officer Olive Magpile.
On five Saturdays starting on June 27, 2015, from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., children ages 6 to 16 are welcome to join a Filipino language and values immersion program. Parents will have the opportunity to connect with other interracial families and help their children explore their Filipino roots.
A culminating program will be held at the end of five Saturdays with awards, announcement of winners of Tuklas Talino student art competition and cultural presentation by the graduates. For further information, please contact the PCGNY Events or email luzdara71@gmail.com.
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