By Percival Cunanan
EBC New York/Eagle News Service
NEW YORK, USA (Eagle News) — International beauty pageant titleholders and Filipina beauty queens Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach, Miss World Megan Young, and Miss International Kyle Versoza; renowned Filipina singer Lani Misalucha; and American Idol star Fil-Am Jessica Sanchez.
They were just among the Filipino talents of all ages who came to the 119th Philippine Independence Anniversary Commemoration at the Madison Square Park, Madison Avenue, New York City, held on Sunday, June 4, 2017
Shouts of “Mabuhay Pilipinas!” filled the air.
The Philippine Independence Day Celebration started with an early morning flag raising ceremony at the Philippine Consulate General in 5th Avenue. This was followed by the 27th Annual Parade from 38th Street to 27th Street, along Madison Avenue.
Permanent Representative to United Nations Ambassador Teodoro Locsin Jr. and the UN Philippine Team joined the Parade.
“Our local guests performers were amazing not to mention Shane Ericks, Westend star Christine Allado, comedian Mikey Bustos, Martin Nievera and the American Idol star Jessica Sanchez,” said Miguel Braganza ll the Co- chair/Director, Cultural Show Program Director.
“Of course, (we have) our Philippine Tourism COO, Mr. Cesar Montano and our International Beauty Queen winners Miss Universe Pia Wurzbach, Miss World Megan Young, and Miss International Kyle Versoza. ” Braganza said.
“There were Filipino talents from all ages,” he said.
Philippine Tourism Promotions Board COO, Mr. Cesar Montano also gave his remarks on the stage encouraging Filipinos to help and support the current Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.
The energy and spirit of the spectators filled Madison Square Park especially when the guests and performers started their number during the Cultural Show Presentation. People started to shout with joy, sing and dance. And then, there was the never-ending
picture-taking, and of course, the selfies.
Despite the drizzle that turned into rain, the celebration was not hindered. Hot and sizzling sisig and grilled barbeque were just some of food the vendors had showcased as part of Filipino food and delicacies on the streets.
The beautiful regional street dances showing Filipino culture and traditions are one of kind, according to spectators.
“Napakagandang tingnan na makita ang ating mga kababayan na masayang naipapakita sa mundo ang kulay ng ating kultura. Also, it is good that the kids, even in their young age, know their roots and culture. Kahit maulan, masaya pa rin,” Filipino participants said. (story by Percival Cunanan, photo and video by Des Cabangon, EBC New York, Eagle News Service)
