Get ready for a fun-filled day of Filipino festivities next weekend!
For the first time ever, the Kalayaan Festival, which commemorates the 114th Anniversary of Philippine Independence, will be held in Union City.
The free event is usually held in San Francisco every year, however, an advisory group decided to host the event in Union City, according to Union City Councilwoman Pat Gacoscos.
“Someone said, ‘Why don’t we do it in a place where there is a sizable Filipino population?’” Gacoscos told Union City Patch last week.
This year’s celebration will be held June 10 at 1333 Decoto Rd. in Union City, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Organized by a committee of community leaders, young professionals and staff of the Philippine Consulate, the event will feature live entertainment, a fashion parade, comedy and cultural performances, along with celebrity guests.
The theme of Kalayaan 2012 is “A New generation of heroes: Connect. Inspire. Empower.” According to a press release, the theme was selected to inspire the next generation to be leaders in their communities and respective fields of interest.
“Now is the time to encourage our youth to be actively engaged and be conduits for positive change within our communities,” the press release states.
According to AsianJournal.com, the daylong cultural event will include performances from Filipino American talents such as April Labson, Ram Lopez, Allan Manalo and San Francisco theatre group Bindlestiff Studio. Clothing designer Crisanta Malig will also showcase her latest works in a fashion parade and Eskabo Daan will lead a Filipino martial arts demonstration.
Celebrity guests will include popular singer and actress Amber Lily and singer Stella Ruiz. The event will be hosted by comedian and director Bernardo Bernardo.
Those interested in sponsoring, hosting a booth or volunteering at the event can email info@kalayaanSF.org for more information.
Stay tuned to www.facebook.com/KalayaanSF and www.twitter.com/#!/KalayaanSF for more updates.
