It was a joyous event for the Filipino Americans on June 2, 2007 at the JW Marriott in Washington, D.C. Many attendees expressed their congratulations for a successful celebration of the Philippine Independence. They arrived in their formal evening attire looking special, blending in with the elegance of the ballroom. We received wonderful compliments on the exceptional gourmet menu that we selected, Crab Cake, Steak and Fish – the trio served on each plate. The guests enjoyed dancing with the lively music by D’Originals. It was an evening of pure enjoyment - fine dining and elegance of the ballroom, lively music, entertaining dance presentation, and a well prepared program.

I could not help but notice the polished looking and attractively dressed volunteers in the registration area. They were the efficient PAFAI group composed of Fely & Cesar Pontanilla, Viqui & Fred Embuscado, Tessie & Pablito Alarcon, Lynnie & Virgil Ball, Elvie Melegrito and Maurese Owens. We enjoyed listening to the message of Philippine Ambassador Willy C. Gaa, and the keynote address of Ms. Cristeta Comerford. We thank them very much for gracing our event.

As the gala ball chair, I was so proud of my team of volunteers, chairs and members, who helped put up the event. I handpicked them and I was so thankful that they accepted my invitation. They were so talented and dedicated, worked quietly but efficiently - walang “high maintenance.” Working together brought out a great sense of unity, camaraderie, cooperation and responsibility. These are priceless values – both personal and community.

My theme focused on the Filipino Americans, who came to the United States, went mainstream, assimilated with other cultures, found their niche and worked hard. Some were low key and unassuming, but the others who managed to hold high profile positions became known. They became part of progress in America. The best example is Ms. Cristeta Comerford, the first female Executive Chef of the White House.

To transform the theme to an entertainment number, I created a presentation that conveyed the theme through costumes, music and dance. I called the presentation, “Filipiniana-Americana and divided it into three parts. The first part, Filipiniana featured the Filipinos showcasing Philippine costumes – the Terno, Kimona and Barong Tagalog ( Minda & Sam Aguhob, Jovy & Jun Eusebio, Annie & Alex Fangonil- Fely & Ferdie Gomez, Ayn Dietrich, Kristina Madarang & Michelle Manansala); the Maria Clara (Jade Estrada), Muslim (Evelyn Bacani-Van Der Bogaard) and Mountain Province ( Marilou Jimenez, Juliet Naldo and Agnes Yaptenco). After the fashion show, each group performed brief dance steps and movements.

The second part was called Filipiniana-Americana with the participants performing dance numbers signifying the assimilation of the Filipinos with mainstream and other cultures in America. Here, three representative dances were chosen – Rock ‘N Roll (craze in America) (Linda & Randy Viloria, Mariles Grageda & Andy Manriquez, Zeny Viloria & Arsenio Pajarillaga)., Tango (Latin) (Pat & Becky Pagsibigan) and Hip-Hop (the young culture)( Jake, Joe Naldo and friends).

The third part, The Crème of the Crop, was a waltz dance performed by representative Filipino Americans who made it in America (Carl Abella & Jeanette Calahong, Lulu Alexander & Jimmy Cardano, Eileen & Ron De Cesare, Vellie Dietrich-Hall & Warie Azarcon, de Cesar. The finale was an all-star cast ending number with a dramatic formation. Here, I wore another hat, the Director/Choreographer of the dance presentation which I do almost every year. The very able and efficient Fely Gomez assisted me to coordinate with the whole cast of 52 all in all.

I salute Gloria Caoile, whom I always considered as an emcee par excellence. She conducted, took control of the gala program so efficiently. It’s only Gloria who can do it the way she did it – witty, lively and entertaining. In the last issue, I mentioned the composition of my committee chairs. I hand picked them and I was so thankful that they accepted my request. I was truly so lucky. They all did a wonderful job.

The program went on so well and smoothly with the directorship of Dr. Marilou Jimenez and her assistant, Evelyn Bacani - Van Der Bogaard. This dynamic team made things easier for everyone involved in the program. The National Anthems of America and the Philippines were beautifully rendered by the choir of the Medical Mission of Mercy, USA.

After the program, I enjoyed table hopping meeting and thanking all those who came to join us in the celebration. In doing so, I gained new friends.

Other wonderful volunteer were Celia Donahue, Jovy Eusebio, Eric Lachica, Tessie Alarcon, Belen Saramosing Ramirez, Ferdie Gomez, Evelyn Bunoan, and the fantastic Nina Tamayo (supported by husband, Bobby), who headed the invitation and registration committee. Maraming salamat sa inyong l;ahat..


OH MY PAPA!

Fathers are honored on June 11. It is a wonderful occasion to remember and appreciate them not only for being a family provider, but also for the important role that they play in the family. They are considered as the pillars which give strong support to the family structure. I am confident that as a way of honoring them, fathers will be treated to brunch, lunch or dinner by their grown-up children or some special attention or activities at home by their little kids. Happy Father’s Day!


Email: pagsibiganr@aol.com