We had a blast. Thank you so much for inviting us. Congratulations Philippine Veterans (PhilVets) for the very successful 2015 Bataan Day- Araw ng Kagitingan — (A Day of Valor) Celebration.
PhilVets Memorial and Cultural Society of British Columbia (originally the Philippine War Veterans & Ex-Servicemen Society of B.C) celebrated Bataan Day- A Day of Valor “Araw ng Kagitingan” on April 5, 2015 at the Vancouver Alpen Club, 4875 Victoria Drive, Vancouver, B.C.
It was a unique celebration in honor of the defenders of Bataan and the survivors of the infamous Death March. Hon. Don Davies, Member of Parliament, Vancouver-Kingsway, and Mrs. Sheryl Davies were guests of honor. Also present were leaders of the Confederation of Filipino Canadian Associations (CONFICA), Mr. Romy Mercado (Forever Young Seniors Society), Ms. Celyna Sia Sherst (Filipino Seniors Club of BC), and Ms. Ching Hipol (Filipino Zodiac Circle of BC Society).
PHILVETS President Fernando P. Salanga, in a welcome address said: “This celebration is our way of paying tribute and expressing our sympathy, eternal gratitude and affirmation that we have not forgotten the thousands of Filipino and American soldiers who displayed extraordinary gallantry and courage beyond the call of duty in defending Bataan and Corregidor in 1942.”
One of the highlight of the celebration was the coronation of PhilVets Queen of Valor, Ms. Imelda Espejo Canlas.
A Spring Free Style Fashion Show directed by Marilyn Cabico & Ofelia Padua, was likewise featured, with glamorous models on parade, added zest to the celebration. The models were Jasmine Cabarrabang, Kristine Palomares, Angel Anselmo, Rochelle Canlas, Jasmine Stacey, Merlina Fayusal, Celyna Sherst, Virgie Flores, Mitzi Echague, Virgie Archie, Narcy Vinluan, Luz Stacey, Rose Tedlie, Nelia Asutilla, Helen Villarico, Leocy dela Cruz, Rose Taruc, Gloria Lorenzo, Daria David, Linda Gonzales, Genie Lactao, Erlinda Urrutia, Domeng Bagunu, Puring Salazar & Raymond Lam.
The Zambales Line Dancers featuring Merlina Fayusal, Angelina Balaong and Carmelita Claudio opened the program with a lively dance number.
Another group, The Philippine Tapestry, presented a cultural show choreographed by Leny and Letty Arboleda.
A mini concert featuring Filipino-Canadian artists headlined by versatile performer and entertainment host Papa Bear, Master Musician Raffy Swap-One, singer JJ “Wonderboy” Cepeda and singer Jasmine Stacey rocked the house.
Attendees were extremely entertained and took home not only a feeling of satisfaction at having taken part in a successful and inspirational community event, but also wonderful memories of time spent with PhilVets.
Mimi Reginaldo, host and program coordinator provided the report for this veteran’s affair.
That’s the way it is folks, till next time — Mabuhay!
