MAYTINIS is a longtime Christmas tradition carried over from Kawit, Cavite. For the 37th successive year, the Kawiteños of Southern California provided an evening full entertainment and fellowship, culminating with the reenactment of the Christmas Nativity. Turnout was high despite the inclement weather and one can say the pouring of rain is indicative of the blessings showered upon us celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
This year’s celebration was once again held at the National Guard Armory in San Diego. The hall was festively decorated in Christmas décor crowned with handmade parols. The evening was not short of entertainment as the audience was treated to Polynesian dances, hip hop and vocal performances – a showcase of Kawiteños Got Talent! The Kawit Youth Nation, the youth of the Kawiteños of Southern California, constituted the parade of participants and supporting characters for the Panununluyan. Important figures of the Bible, shepherds, angels and the three kings graced the elevated stage. This year the Virgin Mary was played by Ashley Agnes Merlan and Joseph, by Rex Afran.
Every year, our mini symphony of flutes, horns, strings and keyboard is conducted by one of Kawit’s most brightest stars, Bob Shroder. Bob is one of the founders and conductor of FASO – Filipino American Symphony Orchestra, whose recent Christmas concert at the Pasadena Civic Center was a smashing success. Accompanying Bob was Pete Avendaño, a soulful tenor, who had performed a duet with Philippine’s vocal powerhouse, Charice Pempengco at the FASO concert. Pete performed a duet of The Prayer with Kawiteños own Ashley Agnes Merlan and joined our choir for bit parts during the Panununluyan. Mike Zuñiga, also a friend of Bob’s, performed a wonderful rendition of Lupang Hinirang acappella. Bob’s love for the traditions he grew up with and unwavering support for our association along with the work and dedication of our officers, advisors, and members has help make our Maytinis celebration the success we’ve enjoyed for many years.
Plans are in the works to introduce FASO to the San Diego area with a benefit concert in 2010. For more information, email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit our website: www.kawitenos.org. n
( Published December 19, 2009 in Asian Journal Los Angeles p. C6 )
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