ShareThisBy Johnny Tablizo
July 2, 2010 In celebration of the 112th anniversary of the Philippine Independence Day and the 149th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the Philippine Independence Week Committee 2010 (PIWC 2010) hosted the “Filipino-American Seniors Day” on June 19, 2010 at the Levy Seniors Center in Lawrence Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. From all accounts, Saturday was no ordinary day because it was Fil-Am Seniors Day, a special day in which nearly 200 individuals gathered to honor the Filipino-American seniors and pay tribute to them for their significant contributions to our native land, the Philippines and their respective communities.
Ushered by the parade of colors by Filipino-American veterans led by squad leader Frank Obina, the event began with the singing of the National Anthems led by Romy Gumila. Jean Paredes-Tablizo, chairperson of the event, welcomed everyone with proclamations and greetings of appreciation to senior citizens, followed by introductions and recognitions of several special guests and dignitaries in attendance.
Local officials in attendance included State Senator Bill Brady, Retired State Senator Roger Keates and prominent lawyer and civic leader Steve King. In their brief remarks, they were all praises for seniors for their contributions to society and in return, promised to raise awareness amongst all citizens of the seniors’ special needs.
In an effort to give the audience a good knowledge about the newly appointed Consul General who happened to be the keynote speaker, Jean Paredes-Tablizo did a thorough introduction of Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim who gave a very meaningful and inspiring address. Joy Manuel, PIWC 2010 Overall Chairperson, also delivered her brief remarks putting emphasis on the importance of the place of seniors in our society. Ben Laqui, President of the Filipino American Grandparents Association of Chicago gave the response in behalf of the Filipino American seniors.
To the delight of the audience, the program featured a mix of entertainment participated by the seniors. There were line-dancing, folk dancing and song renditions. Anita Rosa and Ben Geronimo provided glamour and glitz with their graceful execution of Filipino folk dances. Dee Obina and Lula Nonato wowed the crowd with their superb rendition of beautiful Filipino songs. Members of the Fil-Am Young at Heart Swingers led by Elna Avelino were on hand to flaunt their line dancing. Awe and envy were the reactions of the audience over how easily those seniors got themselves to dance.
At the end of the entertainment, sumptuous snacks comprising of native delicacies and fruits were served by Co-Chairperson Cora Gumila and her group. At this time, the seniors took the opportunity to talk to ConGen Herrera-Lim in person. To make the event really memorable, they even went to the extent of falling in line for a photo session with the ConGen.
One senior, Mr. Johnny Buendia, said he thought the event was a success. “The meaningful remarks of the speakers set the tone of the event. The entertainment was delightful and the merienda was great”, he said.
Fil-Am Seniors with State Senator Bill Brady
Fil-Am Seniors Day Committee Members with ConGen Herrera-Lim (L-R Seated) Ben Laqui,
ConGen Leo Herrera-Lim, Joy Manuel & Eden Olarte, PIWC Mrs. Philippines 2010 (Standing)
Nick Macabenta, Susan Silvano, Lucy Macabenta, Romy Gumila, Jean Paredes-Tablizo,Tony
Silvano and Johnny Tablizo
PIWC 2010 Members with ConGen Herrera-Lim and Fil-Am Seniors