Fil-Ams show pride at Carson, Calif. PH Independence Day fete
VIDEO: Megan Young dancing with event goer at the 118th Philippine Independence Day celebration in Carson, California. HIYASMIN QUIJANO
CARSON, California – Megan Young, the first Filipina Miss World, declared, “I’m proud to be Pinoy” to the packed crowd at this city’s Philippine Independence Day commemoration June 11 at Veterans Park.
Carson City Councilman Elito Santarina, Fil-Am veterans, Fil-Am small-business owners joined young at the 118th Anniversary commemoration of the Philippine Independence Day, organized by the Philippine Independence Day Foundation, together with the GMA Channel, City of Carson and local supporters and volunteers.
“I’ve been volunteering for this event for the past 17 years. I was an avid goer when I came here as a guest and attendee,” explained Jun Aglipay, president of the Philippine Independence Day Foundation, Inc. and chair of the Steering Committee for the 2016 Philippine Independence Day celebration. “Coming to this event, I was able to learn more, and gaining appreciation makes me feel very proud.”
The crowd at the Philippine Independence Day celebration in Carson, California. HIYASMIN QUIJANO
Jericho Lina, representing the International Church of Harvest’s event booth, said, “Hopefully, we can be a part of this every year. It is good to be a part of the event and get to know neighboring Filipino people.”
“It is my hope that the independence celebration will continue into perpetuity. Filipinos for generations to come must know and celebrate this important and historical event,” stated City of Carson Treasurer Monica Cooper.
“For the City of Carson, this is an important celebration, as we have many Filipino residents and visitors participate in this celebration. Many have volunteered time and resources to ensure the celebration is a resounding success,” stated Cooper.
VIDEO: Philippine Independence Day Foundation, Inc. Chairman Jose “Joe” Merton. HIYASMIN QUIJANO
City of Carson Councilman Elito Santarina said, “Today gives us an opportunity to not only think of our Philippine heroes, but more importantly, to express our gratitude. Without their courage and valor, independence would not have been achieved. Let us continue to cherish and nourish it, love and respect it, in this generation and generations to come.”
Santarina hoped to see more unity and growth, “youth participation, veteran and community advocacy, and more emphasis on services that can be provided by Filipinos to fellow Filipinos.”
“It was a really good event. I didn’t expect there to be a lot of people like this. This is a good way for our kids to be connected with our culture,” stated Demeven Quirino representing Pinoy Rising’s event booth.
