First elected Filipino in U.K. to Asians: ‘Flex political muscle’

Peps Villanueva (left) and Cynthia Barker (fourth from left) with festival organizers. PHOTOS BY GENE ALCANTARA/CYNTHIA BARKER

HOUNSLOW, UK – The annual Asia Summer Festival representing nearly two-dozen Asian communities in the UK and initiated by Filipino organizers took place for the second time Saturday July 25 to Sunday July 26 in Lampton Park.

Countries that participated in the festival included Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar (Burma), Nepal, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

Filipino digital radio presenter and social activist Peps Villanueva hosted the introductions and welcomed special guest Town and Borough Councillor Cynthia Alcantara Barker onstage to give the opening speech.

The famous English rain couldn’t dampen the spirit of Asian Summer Festival-goers. 

Councillor Barker recently made history as the first Filipina to be elected in both positions in the UK.

Barker congratulated the organizers, Cora Santos and Roselle Collado specifically, for putting together such an important event. “This is a fantastic way of sharing our understanding of international relations, cooperation and enjoying international community spirit,” said Barker. “With this event, we can bring the younger and older generations together to learn from each other.”

Filipino food galore at Lampton Park during the Asian Summer Festival. 

Barker went on to address the strong sense of community in the Philippines: “We are fortunate enough to have that Bayanihan spirit instilled in us, and we can develop that by reaching out more to our neighbors.”

Speaking of her recent double elections to a significant political position, Barker said: “It’s a special feeling being the first Filipina to get elected in the UK. I hope to make a difference, enjoy the journey and make you Filipinos proud.”

Barker further mentioned her hopes for Asian candidates to take a more active role in UK and even international politics.

“There are not many Filipinos and Asians involved in politics. I would advise you to get involved so you too can influence the political agenda. For instance, you could start by registering to vote or volunteering for your local party, which is how I got started.”

Festival volunteers getting ready to deal with logistics. 

Barker ended her speech with thanks, and said: “Who knows, we may one day have a Filipino or Asian Prime Minister.”

Representing the Philippine Embassy at the event was Consul Voltaire Mauricio.

The food court featured exotic cuisine and beverages from around Asia. Many stalls around the festival area touted Asian accessories, clothes, health products, arts and crafts, and jewellery. Several businesses and exhibitors, including travel agents, property developers and remittance companies also promoted their services at the event.

The festival entertainment included a cultural parade, a funfair, workshops for children, martial arts and sports demonstrations and live music sessions.

The popular ‘70s Filipino band, Hotdog, who Councillor Barker acknowledged as “the legendary band of [her] childhood,” performed a lively set despite the inevitable London rain. – Melissa Legarda Alcantara @melissalegalc

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