Central Florida Fil-Ams
Celebrate Philippine Independence Day

 By Lita Martija and Val Dagani, Jr.

 Photo by Gary Lau

Jun 14, 2009

ORLANDO – Filipino-Americans in Central Florida held a community
celebration on June 14, 2009 to mark the 111th Anniversary of the
Declaration of Philippine Independence.

One hundred-and-eleven years ago, on June 12, 1898, General Emilio Aguinaldo,
the Commander-in-Chief of the Philippine Revolutionary Forces triumphantly declared
the Independence of the Philippines from Spain. The Declaration of Independence
effectively ended 377 years of Spain ‘s colonial subjugation, and led to the establishment of the fi rst democratic and constitutional republic in Asia.

The celebration was held at Orlando Marriott Downtown and attracted approximately
one thousand people, crowding the hotel’s entire second floor which was lined with dry goods and food booths, business and cultural exhibits. The cultural program featured historical re-enactments, colorful folk dances and a talent show which lasted until 5:30pm. The successful event was hosted by the Council for Filipino American Organizations, also known as CFAO, chaired by Leilani Fontanilla.
The event’s program was co-chaired by Val Dagani, Jr., with the support and participation of CFAO member organizations – Bataan-Corregidor Memorial Foundation, Bayanihan International Ladies Association, the Filipino-American Association of Osceola County & South Orlando, the Filipino-American
Veterans Association, Gawad Kalinga of Orlando, the Ilocano Association of
Central Florida, the Ilonggo Association of Central Florida, the Order of the
Knights of Rizal, Ladies for Rizal Auxiliary, Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce and the VisMindaLuz Association of Central Florida. CFAO was
established to form a united Filipino-American representation to the general public, promote and serve the general welfare of its members and encourage cooperation and camaraderie in the Filipino American community. The organization also
sponsors various projects in the community including health screenings
at the Marks Street Community Center and feedings for the Orlando Coalition
for the Homeless and the Boys’ Ranch.

The celebration of the Declaration of Philippine Independence is one major event that strengthens the bond of more than 70,000 Filipino-Americans residing in
Florida with their native land.

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