Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

‘Handog ng FASO sa Pasko’ brings early holiday cheer in LA.

IMPRESSIVE Harmony. Inspired Community. Immense Love of Country.  These were the delightful ingredients of the Handog ng FASO sa Pasko December 6 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium that made it so unforgettable. Thousands came expecting a show. They all went home raving and overwhelmed by the spectacular Pinoy Christmas experience.

Consul General Mary Jo Aragon was enthralled. Veteran Filipina actress Shirley Gorospe was spellbound. Famous choreographer and dancer Lally Aldeguer was mesmerized. Prominent singer Mon David was totally impressed. Everyone was in praise of the Christmas concerto. The FASO fever now burns ever so bright in Southern California!

"This is the first time I have truly felt the Filipino Christmas spirit in America,’ said John Mina of the Filipino-American Library. Countless Pinoys in the audience agreed. The FASO and choir members dressed in native barong, playing and singing well-loved Filipino Christmas favorites transported the audience to beloved memories of Christmas pasts in their homeland.

"When I saw the colorful jeepney in front of the auditorium, the di-padyak tricycle, the beautiful parols, the dancers and singers performing on the façade – I became so excited. It was the greatest show! Oh wow, it’s like I was back in the Philippines," said Carol, a nurse from San Diego.

Roger and Cora Oriel, the couple behind the Asian Journal Foundation and the Filipino-American Symphony Orchestra (FASO), truly spared nothing to give the best, the merriest, and most unforgettable Pamaskong Handog to the Filipino American community in Southern California. The much-awaited Christmas concerto was not only a celebration of Christmas, the Pinoy way; it also celebrated the Filipinos’ love of country, her culture, traditions and their love for their kababayans.

FASO musical director Bob Shroder excellently conducted the 60-member Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO), which gave a truly impressive performance. "The orchestra just celebrated our first year anniversary. We started out with just 7 members –and we called ourselves an orchestra," he laughingly shared. "People told us, ‘just keep calling yourselves that’. Now, we’re more than 60 here. Thank you for all your support," he added as he gave special mention to the Oriels and Lito Ocampo Cruz, founders of FASO.

"I have never felt prouder to be a Filipino as tonight," enthused Catholic priest Fr. Albert Avenido, Associate Pastor at St. Pancratius Church and the Archdiocesan Priest Liaison to the Filipino Clergy in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles County.