On Saturday, the Filipino American community of the Hampton Roads region came together in an extraordinary display of culture and friendship for the 45th annual Fil-Am Friendship Day at Mount Trashmore. As neighbors and representatives of the area's Filipinos gathered for a parade, flower pageant, and celebrations in honor of Philippine Independence Day and its 125th anniversary, local leaders like Rep. Bobby Scott, Senator Tim Kaine, and Rep. Jen Kiggans addressed the crowded gathering.
Commemorating Philippine Independence Day
On Saturday, dozens of Filipino Americans in Hampton Roads came together to celebrate the 45th annual Fil-Am Friendship Day at Mount Trashmore. This momentous occasion was made even more special by its proximity to Philippine Independence Day on June 12, and the 125th anniversary of this holiday. The festivities began with a parade and included a Flores De Mayo pageant, traditional cuisine, and cultural performances that proudly displayed the wealth of Filipino culture. This day of celebration commemorates the independence of the Philippines from the United States on July 4, 1946.
Celebrating the Filipino American Community in Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads
The Filipino American community in Virginia Beach and the Hampton Roads region was celebrated with pride as 19,000 Filipinos gathered to commemorate their significant presence in the area. Rep. Bobby Scott (D, VA-3), Senator Tim Kaine (D, VA), and Rep. Jen Kiggans (R, VA-2) all addressed the crowd, highlighting the importance of their contributions and cultural heritage. A momentous day of unity and friendship, it was a reminder of how much the Filipino American community has grown and continues to grow.
Dr. Cynthia Romero, representing the Council of United Filipino Organizations of Tidewater, emphasized the significance of the event, expressing that it is not only a celebration of Filipino-American culture but also a testament to the enduring friendship between the Philippines and the United States.
Filipinos Making Their Mark on the World
Filipinos are making their mark on the world and this is just one of the many examples! NextShark recently reported about an amazing 'Genshin Impact' actor who asked her fans to bathe before her concert - a sign of respect and appreciation that will surely resonate with many. This is yet another example of Filipinos being celebrated for their contributions to their city, their state, and their country. They should be proud of their accomplishments and continue to support them as they strive for even greater heights!
This year's Fil-Am Friendship Day was a powerful reminder of the robust Filipino American community and culture in Hampton Roads and a great celebration for the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day. The coming together of over 19,0000 Filipinos from around the region was a beautiful symbol of unity and friendship and provided an opportunity not only to remember the country's hard-earned independence but also to recognize the immense contributions this resilient and ever-growing group of people has made, that continue to offer a unique spirit to Virginia Beach and the surrounding areas. This year we can proudly say the Filipino spirit is alive and thriving!
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