Traditional foods, games and cultural shows mark Philippines Independence Day celebration in Richmond

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Members of the Filipino community from various cities and municipalities in the Lower Mainland area converged Saturday, June 11, 2022, at RFF Fellowship Hall in Richmond to celebrate their 124th Philippine Independence Day amidst the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions that were in place on and off during the height of the pandemic in the last two years.

“The celebration is not only to commemorate our nation’s independence but more so, to meet our families, friends, and relatives in our community whom we have not seen and physically met for more than two years due to the pandemic. It’s a great time to rejoice and celebrate this moment”, says Joe Larano, a long–time Richmond resident and the lead organizer of the event.

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Event participants donning their national costumes and regional attires showcased their talents in traditional dances, games, and Philippine history quizzes. “Harana”, a traditional way of serenading and courting a woman was the highlight of the event. A two-dimensional replica of “Jeepney”, a remnant and development from WWII American jeep and of the native early Filipino house known as “Bahay Kubo” were on display and the center of photo ops during the event. Filipino dishes such as “adobo”, “laing”, “menudo”, “lechon” and many more were freely served throughout the duration of the event.

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The annual Independence Day Celebration is a big event and undertaking in the Philippines which has a current population of 108 million. It is also being observed by more than 10 million Filipinos in diaspora living and working in various foreign countries.