(UFO) — On Sunday, June 18, 2023, the United Filipino Organization held Pistang Pinoy 2023 at the Marianas Business Plaza in celebration of the 125th Philippine Independence Day with the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan at Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future & History). Hundreds of people joined the event which also celebrated Father’s Day.
This year’s festivity was full of games, entertainment, and raffle draws with cash and several items as prizes. The grand prize of $500 cash was won by Israel Libut.
The event featured fiesta activities with vendors, whole-day entertainment, and contests.
UFO is grateful to its major sponsors: TSL Foundation, IT&E, and RNV Construction.
UFO President Birhen Martinez would also like to acknowledge and thank the other sponsors: Marianas Business Plaza, Marcelo Masilungan of SuperTech Inc., JTM Corporation, Coca-Cola Beverage Saipan, Saipan Ice & Water Company, EFG Pacific Holdings, Marianas Association of Filipino Engineers and Architects, Saipan Magalahi Eagles Club, Saipan Maga Haga Lady Eagles Group, Puerto Rico Bento, Mr. & Mrs. Jimmy and Abby Whang, SM, New Paradise Florist, Micronesia Renewable Energy, and AYD Services.
The event was highlighted by the Father & Son Look-Alike contest. Tied for 1st place were Andrew & Kyrie Sublay, Bien & Bien Paul Ramos. The other contest participants were Ryan & Rydel Sicat, Randy & Ethan Tisoy, Nefre & Reica Austria, and Ryan & Ryle Odicta. All of them received cash prizes.
The other highlight was the performances of the Amazing Drag Queens: Shine, Rollie, and Zade. Their choreographer was Ernie Molina and their gowns were sponsored by the House of Beautiful Creation by Bench Legaspi.
UFO also extends its appreciation to the other performers: Ellen Vidanes, Erma Tubera, Ace & Adrian Docca, Donnel Isip, Elmer Belgado, Mharkee, Ronilo De Belen, Benjie Deniega, Fitbeat Familia Zumba, Unshakeable Band, Gemma Monton, Groove Theory Band, Juliana Kai Ortiz, Roanne Dela Cruz Palma, Green Meadow School teachers and Principal Mila Songcuan, Xtreme Zumba, Rizza Mae Guevarra, and Forever Young Dance Group.
This year’s celebration was hosted by Annamae Adaza and RV Caberos.
The event would not have been successful without the support of the vendors: 5 pcs Colecciones, Yadokari Kitchen, Tres Marias, 9 Eleven Resto & Bar, RJ Pizza, Oink, Rendezvous, Citrine, Heavenly Bites, Lamesa, JTM Corporation, Chelu Shave Ice, and STAG.
Volunteers are the backbone of UFO which is composed of 10 groups: Bayani Association, Bicol Association, Santo Niño Group, Marianas Association of Filipino Engineers & Architects, Marianas Institute of Filipino CPAs and Accountants, Tau Gamma Phi/Triskelion, Northern Marianas Bartenders Association, Saipan Building & Fixing Computer Users Group, MDX Amateur Radio Group and Akap Pinoy.
The United Filipino Organization volunteers.
The Amazing Drag Queens. From left, Rollie, Shine and Zade.
The Father & Son Look-Alike contest winners.
The Green Meadow School performers.
Israel Libut, left, wins the $500 cash grand prize.
