Fiesta Filipina Focuses on Family
June 8, 2000
Anh Lan Hoang
Diversity is an accurate description of the Bay Area. And one population that has greatly contributed to today’s ethnic landscape is the Filipino American community. During June 10 and 11 at the Civic Center Plaza in San Francisco, the 7th annual Fiesta Filipina 2000 will draw thousands in celebration of the June 12, 1898 Philippine Independence from Spanish rule. Philippine House of Representative speaker, Manuel Villar and Senator Gringo Honasan will share their thoughts and feelings on Filipino Independence.
Bay Area resident and founder of Fiesta Filipina, Gerry Palabyab, proclaims that “Fiesta Filipina’s mission statement is to celebrate and promote Filipino culture through the holding of concerts, exhibitions, festivals, and different kinds of forums about the Philippines.”
Palabyab, a business expert, entrepreneur, father, intellectual, and 6th grade teacher, eagerly gives impromptu crash courses on Filipino culture and history to anyone willing to listen. His passion for learning and teaching is evident by involvement with the Filipino community; Manila Bulletin U.S.A, the largest newspaper serving the Bay Area; and Fiesta Filipina. Through Fiesta Filipina, Palabyab hopes to unite Filipinos of all generations. Most importantly, the gathering symbolizes the past, present and future of Filipino culture.
Fiesta Filipina combines education and entertainment by providing hours of fun for the family. Ethnic folk dancers in colorful costumes can be viewed in addition to salsa performances. Following the shows, the dancers will demonstrate the steps and teach the origin of the costumes to anyone interested. This year’s performers include actor Richard Gomez, host Allan K and
co-host Ruby Rodriguez of the comedy show Eat Bulaga, comedian Alan K., singer Jocelyn Enriquez, pop group Freeverse, and the R&B trio Interlude.
For the kids, the members of the NBA Warriors will display their basketball tricks throughout the day. There will also be petting zoos and pony rides. Delicious Filipino food is going to be served all day.
Tickets are $7 one day, $10 both days, $3 for seniors, and free for all kids under age 12. Bring the family to Fiesta Filipina for some fun!
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