2011 Dr. Jose Rizal Day

Dear All,

Happy 2012!!!

Thank you for supporting the commemoration of Rizal Day 2011, a Filipino tradition. Despite your tight schedule, we had a memorable celebration of our national identity.

Even the weather cooperated nicely.

If other ethnic groups can be proud of their heritages, how couldn't we?

Maybe sticking to nostalgia of those who came are those colorful authentic Igorot costume of the teenage girls of BIBAK, U.S.A. dancing the original untumbling "banga" dance highlighting rich native culture. Thanks to Andrew Dompao and Roland Rasos. BIBAK means Benguet, Ifugao, Bontoc, Apayao and Kalinga provinces.

Not to be outdanced were the "young once" members of "Lawiswis Kawayan" troupe of Pilipino American Senior Citizens Organization of Houston(PASCOH) and the Kirkwood Senior Center housed at the First Filipino American United Methodist Church project of the Area Assistance for the Aging(AAA) and YWCA. PASCOH president is Rev. Al Carcedo and in-charge also of the AAA program.

The day was ushered in by a mini parade within the Houston Garden Center, otherwise known as International Garden owing to it being populated by some 50 monuments of different world heroes, Dr. Jose P. Rizal included led by FACOST Chair Marie Mercado, Knights of Rizal Chapter Commander Mel Garraton and Tagalog Association president Randy Datu. As usual, there were the Color Guards parading the flags, followed by presidents and members of different community organizations marching to the tune of the Non Omnis Moriar, Martsa Kay Rizal composed in Houston by Bibiano Arzadon with lyrics by yours truly.

Bicol USA president Vic Melgarejo, also a Lion, volunteered his services as a DJ or a sound man and even brought a tray of "laing" as community participation of the Bicolanos.

Roland Rasos, brought a generator, as well as a big cauldron of Arroz Caldo. His better half drove the elder dancers from the senior center, to include her mom.

Rasos brought also some Ilocano Club members as its president and some Bayanihan of Houston members. He is also, the Deputy Chapter Commander of the Knights of Rizal.

Vismin president Oscar Tolentino and wife Bella brought some food and helped in food serving. Rev. Carcedo blessed the food composed of regional delicacies making the community picnic delectable.

Atty. Romy Diaz, immediate past president of the Texas Society of Philippine American CPAs represented them. President Jun Marcella of Pangasinan Association of Texas was there with you too, bringing some eats and members. Chona Sano, first VP of Houston Millennium Lions Club represented her club and husband Emil, a Dr. Jose Rizal Excellence Awardee for the Arts and children were too.

Mercado and Garraton inspired the attendees with their remarks about Rizal and the cooperation among Filipinos.

A voluntary collection of donations for the victims of typhoon Sendong was held.

Past commander Lope Lindio was satisfied with the outpouring of support of the local Filipinos, he said.

The Genova family of beauties was there too led by Gilda.

Preparation of such an important occasion is a long way but pays off with the cooperation of everybody.

No space will be enough to mention the fervor and participation of all concerned.

Mabuhay!!

Ben Ongoco, KCR
Event Chair