UFO proud to show Filipino culture at int’l festival

The Filipino contingent, led by United Filipino Organization president Annamae Adaza, center, participate in the International Festival of Cultures parade on Oct. 4, 2014. (Jayson Camacho)

With the inaugural International Festival of Cultures coming to a close last Saturday, the United Filipino Organization is now looking forward to joining next year, according to its president, Annamae Adaza.

“It’s the first time UFO was directly involved with the IFC event. It feels good to share and show our own Filipino culture to the CNMI,” Adaza said.

She said UFO also wants to extend its deepest gratitude to the generous companies and individuals who helped them.

One of the groups under the umbrella organization, the Bayani Association, danced for three consecutive Saturdays in September—which was a first for Adaza to join any dance shows for the community.

Some of the Filipino cultural dances that were showcased in the festival were Paseo de Iloilo, Mantones de Ceda, the Salakot Dance, and Polka sa Nayon, with two Tagalog songs from Mikaella Cunanan.

Last Saturday, the United Filipino Association Tinian Cultural Group or UniFil performed eight different dances: the Igorot dance, the La Jota/Habanero, the Mamang Sorbetero dance, the Bulaklakan dance, the very famous Tinikling, the Kuradang dance, and the Singkil and fan dance.

All these cultural dances are also performed in the Philippines during festivals and throughout the year.

At the IFC, the Filipino contingent not only showcased cultural and traditional dances but also the native food and crafts. Fong’s Bakery sold Filipino food while King Solomon sold arts and crafts from the Philippines.

Adaza said that on behalf of UFO they would like to thank UniFil president Rodney Cabarles, Susan Manuel, Joselito Lenteja, Jonah Lagotaa, Teresita Sanchez, Allen Perez of Bridge Capital LLC, and Philippine honorary consul nominee Eli Arago for the Tinian group’s accommodation.

“After the event, UFO hosted lunch for the group at Don Pedro Restaurant, during which UFO gave a certificate of appreciation to Bayani Association and UniFil,” Adaza said.

Adaza also thanked their donors who helped with the food: Jhem’s Restaurant, Shirley Wilson Catering, The Elegance, Fong’s Bakery, Lei Hicaro of MIFICPA, Star 6 Ent., Donna Lyn General Merchandising, and all UFO and Bayani members and volunteers who brought food, as well as IFC coordinators for the Filipino community Mario Mayuga and Olive Yana.

“All the efforts and the series of rehearsals paid off, knowing that we we’re able to give them a great cultural show of the Philippines,” Adaza said.