The parade route along Madison Ave. was cheering mightily for all the Filipino performers and parade marchers celebrating the 125th anniversary of Independence from Spain. It was truly a wonderful display of culture and heritage amongst the Filipino people. As usual, the mounted police signaled to the crowd that the parade was about to get under way. Parade organizers and VIPs were among the first to march and were seated by the reviewing stand on 29th St. where marchers and performing groups were announced by two Emcees. Several colorful floats passed by with signs offering continued support of the Filipino-American friendship and coalition.
This parade is a treasured cultural parade in that festival winners in the Philippines are invited to NYC just to participate in this parade. And they put on an amazing performance this year beginning with the Bacold City Masskada with their colorful costumes and energetic dances. Spain had a large influence on Philippine culture although the Spanish were defeated 125 years ago. One such influence is religious in nature with the adoration of the Santo Niño, the child representation of Jesus Christ. Each year there is a huge 9 day festival in Cebu, Philippines with lots of colorful costumes and great dances. This year Sinulog was chosen to represent that festival here in NYC. Gingoog City sent some of their representatives to put on an amazing dance performance that best represented some of the cultural dances that have gone on for generations. Tribu Gingoog set the tone for some cultural dancing soon followed by Kaliga Festival winners Misanis Oriental.
A few celebrities made their way to the parade route including Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel and movie star Meghan Young. Keeping true to the tradition of helping the community, the honor of Grand Marshall was bestowed upon Dr. Dely Go, President of Nursing Network LLC. They all drew applause and cheers from the adoring fans. Another group visiting but not as far as from the Philippines were the Mabuhay Bayanihan Association from Albany, NY with some nice dance moves. This was a truly amazing parade filled with lots of color and joyful energy. After parade, food kiosks set up on 25th Street after the parade were filled the people to sample authentic Filipino food. A stage was set up on 23rd Street and Madison Ave. so more festivities and dancing could go on. It truly was a happy day to be Filipino.
Photos: Albert Terc and Nayra Mafla
Written by: Albert Terc
NYC Parade Life 