Philippine Consul General Wilfredo DL, Maximo led the opening of the program with acting Gov. Eloy S. Inos, Ray Mafnas, the governor’s senior policy advisor, and Tony Benavente, Mayor Juan B. Tudela’s spokesman.
Olive Yana, United Filipino Organization president, said except for the downpour that affected the preparation of the stage on Saturday night, they did not encounter any untoward incident.
“The event is very successful and more people joined the fun and games,” she said, adding that 15 vendors participated this year.
The master of ceremonies, Marianas Association, Marianas Association of Filipino Engineers and Architects president Bong de Guzma, and Pistang Pinoy event coordinator Minda Castro, thanked IT&E, Budweiser, Taro Sue and Western Union for sponsoring the event.
The program started with an invocation by Fr. Manny Corcuera of the Santa Soledad Parish.
In his brief message, Maximo said he is hoping that the programs and accomplishments of the Filipinos on island will continue to flourish and cement their strong relationship with the CNMI government.
He also praised the Filipino community’s unity.
Inos lauded the Filipino community for initiating the Pistang Pinoy and projecting a pleasant atmosphere on island.
After the inspirational message of Tudela was read by Benavente, the invited guests and performers presented their special numbers.
There were several games for children and adults.
The performers included the Genesis Choir, the Bayani Association, Glen Mesina, Tanya, Miki & Akeiko Dela Cruz, Uncle Ben’s Saipan Dream Academy Stars, Nikki Canape, the Hyatt’s Star Society, PIC’s Icon Band, the Kikbak Band with Joanne Cabrera, Paul Dujua and Michelle Villarasa with the Soulful Acoustic Band, Rose Lazaro, D’ Spectrum Dancers, the Project Impact Dancers, the Revolutionary Group, the Airhead Dancers, Erica Fe Tubero, Walden & Violy, the Cornerstone Performing Arts, the Rated R Band, the High Pitch Band, Giovanni Pardinan, Dose of Valium Band and Joan Tomokane Liwanag.
