Filipino News 171

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BUHAY NZ 02 ISSUE 171 | REUNION 2023 | www.filipinonews.nz | email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | www.migrantnews.nz | Facebook: Migrant News www.filipinoheroes.nz : Over a 120 Filipino Kiwi Heroes have been recognised over the years by Filipino News NZ. Kalagkalag 2023 ‘Kalagkalag 2023’ demonstrated that Halloween isn't just about spookiness; it's also about coming together for a hauntingly good time. Ilonggos ‘Spooktacular’ Halloween Bash Auckland came alive on October 28, 2023, with a spooktacular event that brought together music, food, and Halloween festivities. It was Kalagkalag 2023 – a night of chills, thrills, and sheer Halloween fun. Parnell Community Centre's venue was transformed into a Halloween haven, where everyone wore their eeriest costumes, unleashing their inner monsters. The evening started with a warm welcome from Rey Cadiz, the Chairman, of the Ilonggo Integrated Association Inc. NZ, setting the stage for a night filled with live music and anticipation. ‘Mind Band’ rocked the crowd with their tunes, setting the mood for a magical night. Food was served to delight taste buds while the live band kept the rhythm alive, ensuring no one missed a beat. Then came the moment of truth – the raffle draw. Excitement filled the air as participants competed for fantastic prizes, adding an extra layer of suspense. The Halloween costume contest was a scream, with participants going out to showcase their creative and spine-tingling costumes. Prizes went to the most creative outfits, both scary and imaginative. Dancing and live music took over, with everyone grooving on the dance floor until late. The final raffle draw winners were revealed at the stroke close to midnight. It was a nail-biting moment, with attendees hoping to hear their names called. The Best Costume Winners were honoured for their incredible outfits. The night ended with a disco party, with everyone By Reynand Dumala-on, Public Relations Officer, IIA Inc.NZ dancing their hearts out until midnight. ‘Kalagkalag 2023’ was a night to remember, creating cherished memories of an unforgettable evening. Thanks to all participants and sponsors for making this night a resounding success. This event showcased the strength of community and togetherness in Auckland. The Ilonggo Integrated Association, Inc. NZ (IAA Inc. NZ), a thriving community group and a registered organisation in New Zealand, aims to help people coming from Western Visayas or Region VI in the Philippines settle down and start a new life in their new adopted country. This region comprises six provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental. For more info on upcoming events or getting involved with the Association, visit their official Facebook page https://www. facebook.com/PAGUGY- ONKASIMANWA or contact them at info.iiainz@ gmail.com or call 021- 08919613. C hristmas a t Malacañang P a l a c e CENTERPIECE. (left) A close look at the giant Christmas tree inside the Malacañang Palace in Manila that lit up during the switch-on ceremony led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The entries of state universities nationwide for the lantern-making contest adorn the tree. LOCAL DELIGHTS. (right) Filipino snacks were served to guests and officials at the traditional Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Malacañang Palace in Manila on November 25, 2023. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the event, followed by gift-giving for children, both at the Kalayaan Grounds. (PNA photos by Joan Bondoc)
ISSUE 171 | REUNION 2023 | www.filipinoheroes.nz | email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | www.filipinonews.nz | 03 BUHAY www.filipinoheroes.nz : Over a 120 Filipino Kiwi Heroes have been recognised over the years by Filipino News NZ. NZ A Slam Dunk Revival Post COVID Pistang Pilipino 2023 ROTORUA - In a display of Filipino culture, community spirit and sportsmanship, Pistang Pilipino 2023 took centre stage in Rotorua, making a remarkable comeback post Covid. The event, which attracted a significant number of visitors, marked the revival of a beloved tradition that had been put on hold for two years. The attendance at Pistang Pilipino 2023 was a matter of speculation, but one thing was certain – it drew a considerable crowd. Jun Valencia, Chairman of the Federation of Filipino Associations, Societies and Clubs in New Zealand Inc. (FFASC- NZI), reflected on the event's size, saying: "Some reports say 5,000; some say more than 5,000. That’s from all over New Zealand. If I base it on the number of sports participants, we had quite a few from Christchurch and many from Auckland, so I'd say between 5,000 and 10,000." The two-year hiatus due to COVID fuelled the resurgence of attendees, whose eagerness to partake in this year’s celebration of Filipino culture was at a high, as Jun explained. "This is definitely because we stopped for two years, and last year’s event was in Palmerston North. But now we can see that people came because they missed this and now it's growing.” A myriad of sporting competitions, including basketball, volleyball, table tennis and billiards, were featured at this year’s function. These competitions were accompanied by cultural activities, exhibitions and of course, Filipino food. The event also served as a reminder of the growing Filipino community in New Zealand. “In the latest census we were about to be a mothership in partnership with the Philippine Embassy." The Federation's vision extends beyond annual meetings to address the community's needs and concerns proactively. Despite challenges and obstacles like COVID, Jun Valencia's leadership remains focused on a united community. By Ricky Matthew He mentioned the importance of distancing the Filipino community from negative influences and added: "We don't want that negativity here. In the Philippines we are identified by region, but here we're just Filipinos. No region. That's how we we can unite the 100,000 Filipinos." Jun's commitment to community unity and the elimination of negativity is evident in his vision for the future. With Pistang Pilipino set to be held in Auckland next year, hopes are high that record numbers of attendees will be achieved. "I expect Auckland to be double or triple the attendance next year," Jun expressed enthusiastically. As Pistang Pilipino continues to evolve and grow, the Filipino community in New Zealand can look forward to more vibrant celebrations, exciting sports competitions and cultural activities. The event's revival serves as a testament to the resilience and unity of the Filipino community, both locally and globally. Joeve Elan, 19, contestant No. 7, Miss Philippines-NZ 2023 from Wellington who was born in Cebu. Photo credit: Migrant News 100,000 and growing,” said Jun Valencia. "And of that number I think that 60% are from Auckland. All these Filipinos, new and old, are still looking for that one day when we can all get together." The Federation is evolving and aiming to become a central hub for the rapidly expanding Filipino community in New Zealand, noted Jun Valencia. "I'll try my best ... I want the Federation
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Filipino News 171

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