Kalayaan Incorporated, in its inaugural effort towards community service, had a successful induction ceremony and Typhoon Sendong relief fundraising event on January 27, 2012, at the Stevens Steak & Seafood Restaurant in the City of Commerce.
Newly inducted Kalayaan Inc. Board President Antero Pagunsan delivered an inspired and powerful speech about his and the Kalayaan Board’s “commitment to continued deliverance of honorable and prestigious celebrations of Philippine Independence Day for many years into the future.
“Let us focus the activities of Kalayaan Inc.,” he stated, “to bring pride to our community in Southern California.”
Kalayaan Inc. will stage a Grand Ball in celebration of the 114th Anniversary of Philippine Independence Day on June 9, 2012, at the Torrance Marriott South Bay Hotel in Torrance, California.
“Our journey together towards our Independence Day Commemoration,” added Vice President Naomi Palma-Armada, “has just begun. Please join us in our efforts to promote our great Filipino culture and heritage and our innate pride in all things that speak of our being Filipinos.” Mrs. Armada thanked the many Filipino American Association leaders who attended and donated their time and money towards the fundraising effort.
Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon, who just returned from the Philippines, gave an update on the aftermath of the devastation left by Typhoon Sendong (International Name: Washi) that struck the provinces of Northern Mindanao and Negros Oriental on December 17, 2011.
According to the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the death toll is now close to 1500 with more than 1,000 missing and about 2,000 injured. The Congen added that last month, it was reported that a total of 102,899 families or 674,472 people, who were affected by Typhoon Sendong, are awaiting relocation from evacuation centers. Estimated cost of damages to infrastructure, agriculture and school buildings is estimated at P2 billion.
“With the January event,” said Mislang, “Kalayaan Inc., was able to raise $2000.00 and will add that amount to the Philippine Disaster Relief Organization’s $2000.00 donation that will be directed towards the Typhoon Sendong disaster relief effort.”
In addition, the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce-Los Angeles Vice President Mary Ann Omega and her husband Noel Omega, 2008 Kalayaan Chair and FACC-LA President Emeritus, presented J. Robbie Fabian, President of ABS-CBN Foundation International, with a check from the FACC-LA and delivered a message of continued support to ABS-CBN Foundation efforts, after which President Fabian addressed the audience and thanked them for their donation.
Emceed by Ted Benito of PAE Live, guests were welcomed at the door by Lydia Soriano and Carmelita Paule, who, together with Mislang, facilitated the venue for the induction. A truly grace-seeking invocation was offered by Archerie Calunod and gracious welcome remarks were delivered by Kalayaan Chair 2011 Leo Maranan, who thanked community leaders and friends for joining the fundraiser and supporting Kalayaan Inc. in its inaugural 2012 event.
Among Kalayaan advisers present were Kalayaan Chair 2001 Ludy A. Ongkeko, Ph.D., who came with her husband, Col. (ret.) Hermie Ongkeko and family friend Jimmy Dichirico; and UBLA Los Angeles Executive Director Zeny Sabocor, whose guests included husband Serry Sabocor, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mel Recana, and a table full of UBLA officers and members. Maria Sheets, Asst. Director of the Board of Public Works, Office of Community Beautification, who facilitated last year’s message from LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, was a special guest.
The evening started on a high note with the inspired singing of the national anthems led by Midnight Motion Band’s Willie Manacsa and Ralph Victoria. After the short program, guests danced away to the band’s lilting music, and were regaled by a special number from a guest of Mr. Pagunsan. Jane Pua sang the 007 movie theme song “Diamonds are Forever.”
“The event demonstrates Kalayaan Inc.’s concern for its duties towards community and public service,” said Mislang, “and in light of this civic responsibility, Kalayaan Inc. will continue developing a series of events geared to raise awareness and support for community service. This was the first and we are proud of being able to raise $4,000 for Typhoon Sendong relief, to honorably establish our Charter as the Kalayaan Inc. Board and to kick off our drive towards the June 9th Kalayaan 2012 celebration event.”
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