Celebrating the Philippine Independence Day – stateside
I never really cared for the Philippine Independence Day, before, growing up at least. Our high schools usually had some kind of event to mark it, and then of course some things were happening at government institutions. But for me, personally, to be involved with celebrating it… I just wasn’t that nationalistic.
Until I lived in the US. It’s different now, because being a Filipino in a foreign country made me appreciate my roots more. So now, every year, my family participates in commemorating the day when our country first tasted freedom.
How did I celebrate it this year? In ways both fun and memorable. Filipinos in Greater Baltimore have an annual celeb at the local courthouse ampitheater, and suddenly one sees brown faces everywhere! It’s always a sight. For one afternoon at least, the streets are filled with fellow pinoys that talk the languages! “Maayong udto, manong.” “Kamusta po?” “Uy, mabuti naman! Taga-saan ka?” To know that we’re all here in Baltimore, for different reasons, but we celebrate the one thing that ties us together – our freedom, is something long remembered.
There was a remembrance of why we are celebrating this day. Who knew one cries from hearing the Philippine National Anthem sang. There was a non-stop program on stage, and this year it was hosted by an American who fell in love with us, via his Filipino wife. Folk dances and songs outside the Philippines have a way of making one nostalgic for home.
And then there are tents that sell all sorts of things pinoy, from Mindanao-made jewelries and trinkets, to halo-halos and BBQ.
There was a church who offered free medical checks and prayers. Divine help is always a needed welcome among Filipinos.
I even found a UP Alumni Association that I didn’t know existed. Some of my younger friends did a cool dance onstage, while some my older friends did a funny rendition of the Coconut Nut.
[images:mine]
Tags: Philippine Independence Day, Baltimore, Maryland, celebration
3 Comments
I’m reminded of Cinco de Mayo, which is a much bigger holiday for Mexicans and Chicanos in the U.S. than it is for the people in Mexico. There is a much greater need to acknowledge and celebrate one’s culture and community when surrounded by discomforting separation.
Happy Philippine Independence Day to you! It is truly a rich heritage worth celebrating.
Matt, thanks for the greetings! I think it’s the same mindset why Chicago Bulls fans stay die-hard, even when living in Maryland.
we always go back to our roots. (not that there’s even a comparison to Bulls with Wizards) LOL
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