OFW's Celebrate the 116th Philippine Independence Day in Taiwan

Overseas Filipino Workers ( OFW ) in Taiwan celebrated the 116th Philippine Independence Day in Banqiao, New Taipei on July 15, 2014.

About Philippine Independence Day

Independence Day is Araw ng Kasarinlan also known as Araw ng Kalayaan in Filipino term which literally means "Day of Freedom". It was a national holiday were Filipinos commemorating the Philippine Declaration of Independence from Spain which observed on June 12.

We, Filipinos in every part of Taiwan gathered and unified as one to celebrate this day of freedom. It was very memorable experienced especially for us Filipino Community in Hualien, Taiwan delegates. We wake up early about 4:00 in the morning because we want also to be part of the celebration. We travel by bus about 4 hrs from Hualien to Taipei. Even though we experienced dizziness in travelling 2 hrs. zigzag road still we enjoyed this journey and it was a great experienced for us.

Filipino Community in Hualien Taiwan delegates

The celebration was started by a Catholic mass followed by the program featuring Filipino cultures from different Filipino groups and organizations working here in Taiwan.

Opening Remarks by our Department of Labor and Employment Director in Taiwan and Tourism Organization and Taiwanese friends.

There was also a parade from different Filipino basketball teams because it was also the opening of IF Basketball League.

IF Basketball League

 Next was the presentation of Filipino cultures joined by Cordillera Group, Ilonggo Seafarers Org., Ilonggo Foundation and many more...

Choir members wearing Philippine costume 

Because it was also the celebration of Migrant Workers day they brought  also ABS- CBN Kapamilya Network celebrities for more fun and enjoyment.

One of the highlight event featuring Doris and Sabel "Pambansang Katulong" through Kapamilya Network telenovela Be Careful with My Heart where they act as caretakers. And also they brought Billy Joe Crawford a PhilAm singer actor, and host.

There are also different booths where you can subscribe TFC or The Filipino Channel to make sure Filipino feel at home while watching Kapamilya telenovelas. There are also payment booth for those who want to pay their GSIS, SSS and PhilHealth.This are government agencies where they encourage Filipinos to join for more benefits. There is the booth of The Migrants, a Filipino newspaper. And there is also food booth for those who miss Filipino foods.

I'm proud to say PILIPINO AKO.