O P I N I O N
By Annalie Sumalinog Vilo
For six vibrant hours, the spirit of the Philippines came alive in Auckland as the Filipino community gathered at the Auckland Showgrounds in Epsom to celebrate the Grand Annual Philippine Independence Day Commemoration.
True to its spirit of inclusion, the annual Filipino News event welcomed everyone free of charge — no tickets, no barriers, just an open invitation to share in the richness of Filipino heritage, culture, and unity.
Kababayans, Kiwi friends, and families filled the venue, creating an atmosphere of pride and belonging.
Young performers, alongside participants aged 50 and above, proudly showcased traditional attire, including the Baro’t Saya, Barong Tagalog, and Muslim-inspired cultural costumes.
Grandmothers and grandfathers smiled from the audience as they watched the performances, their faces reflecting pride in seeing Filipino traditions passed on to younger generations.
The grounds felt like a bustling Manila Night Market. Food stalls offered a delicious array of delicacies from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, including empanada, chicharrón, sisig, BBQ, kakanin, and the award-winning HUMBA that many visitors eagerly looked forward to tasting. The aroma alone transported many back to their hometowns and provinces in the Philippines.
On stage, the rhythmic clapping of bamboo poles accompanied energetic Tinikling performances, as Auckland-born Filipino children skillfully kept pace with one of the country’s most beloved traditional dances.
Throughout the day, cultural presentations highlighted the beauty of Philippine traditions and reminded attendees that these customs carry the stories and sacrifices of generations before us.
Fashion showcases demonstrated that Filipino creativity and design continue to thrive, even during a New Zealand winter.
Meanwhile, Original Pilipino Music (OPM) filled the venue, with patriotic and nationalistic songs providing a fitting soundtrack for the Independence Day celebration.
A highlight of the program was the presentation of the 9th Filipino-Kiwi Hero Awards https://filipinoheroes.co.nz/, recognizing individuals whose contributions have strengthened both the Filipino and New Zealand communities.
Their stories served as a reminder that freedom is not only about commemorating June 12, 1898; it is also about embracing the freedom to be both Filipino and Kiwi without having to choose between the two identities.
As the celebration came to a close, one message resonated throughout the crowd: we may have left the Philippines, but the Philippines has never left us.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang mga Pilipino sa Aotearoa!
