Saipan’s Filipino community celebrates 127th PH Independence Day with Pistang Pinoy скачать в хорошем качестве

Saipan’s Filipino community celebrates 127th PH Independence Day with Pistang Pinoy

The United Filipino Organization CNMI marked the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence with the annual “Pistang Pinoy” celebration last Sunday, June 8, transforming the Marianas Business Plaza’s covered parking lot into a vibrant showcase of Filipino pride, talent, and unity. Although Philippine independence was officially granted on July 4, 1946, Filipinos worldwide commemorate the symbolic declaration of freedom from Spanish colonial rule on June 12, 1898. For practicality, the Saipan event was held on a Sunday to ensure maximum community participation. “This is our time to gather, remember our heroes, and celebrate our culture,” said UFO president Carlito J. Marquez. “It’s not just about food and performances—it’s about remembering what our ancestors fought for and passing on that pride to the next generation.” Marquez said this year’s event, themed Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan (Freedom, Future, History), was both a cultural homecoming and a reminder of the community’s resilience. Traditional Filipino games such as pabitin and palayok were played by children, while performers donned Filipino attire and took the stage for folk dances and live music. Performers included community singers like Kimberly Abina Belza of Homesmart Residences, the Sessionista and Playmates bands, the Profound Dancers Group, and students from Green Meadow School. One highlight was the cultural number by the Marianas Lady Eagles and Kai Ortiz. Raffles and the crowd-favorite “Spin the Wheel” kept the energy high throughout the half-day fiesta. Read the full story at marianaspress.com