Philippine Independence Day Celebration
New York City, June 1, 2008
The street fair grounds was packed with people checking out the vendors and mobbing the food stands like they've never had Filipino food before. There was face painting, balloon sculpture, and magic shows.
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At the Philippine Independence Day celebration, NYC
June 1, 2008
This tri-state chapter started 25 years ago as the pioneer chapter of the University of the Philippines Medical Alumni Society in America (UPMASA). Since it's inception and in keeping with one of its major goals, it has donated to the the UP College of Medicine and the Philippine General Hospital textbooks, journals, medical equipment, research awards and aid in the infrastructure development. In 1995, it spearheaded medical missions and has continued to serve the indigent population of the Philippines yearly since then. As an extension of its mission to help the needy Filipinos, in 2007, it partnered with DAMAYAN Migrant Workers Association to offer free health screening at the New York City Philippine Independence Day Parade.
And it has done so again this year.
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Go back to: Fil-Am Pride:Philippine Independence Day Celebration
On June 12, 1898, in front of a huge crowd at the home of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, the Philippine Declaration of Independence was read by Senior Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista proclaiming the sovereignty and independence of the Philippine Islands from the rule of Spain. The flag of the Philippines which was made in Hongkong by Mrs. Marcela Agoncillo, Lorenza Agoncillo and Delfina Herboza was unfurled and the Philippine National Anthem (Marcha Filipina Magdalo) composed by Julian Felipe was played by the San Francisco de Malabon Marching band.
The Philippine Independence was however, not recognized by the United States until July 4, 1946. Since then, independence day was celebrated on that day. On Aug. 4, 1964, the Philippine R.A. 1466 was passed which changed the date of the Philippine Independence Day to June 12. July 4 was declared the Philippine Republic Day.
Philippine Independence is widely celebrated by Filipinos in the United States, the biggest event occurring in New York City on the first Sunday of June. On this 110th year of the declaration of independence, the theme of the celebration is: Tribute to Filipino Excellence: Likas na Karunungan, Kakayahan, at Kahusayan.
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