This is the first time they will hold the event at the tourist district, UFO president Bong Malasarte said.
In the past, Paskong (Christmas) Pinoy, was held at the Susupe Civic Center or at the Mt. Carmel Cathedral grounds.
Malasarte said the support of Tan Holdings made holding the event in the new location possible.
UFO adviser Olive Yana said they will again showcase cultural performances and presentations at the Paseo de Marianas.
“We are hopeful this will also attract tourists,” she said.
The 2011 Paskong Pinoy has been slated for Dec. 17, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Yana said they will hold a lantern making contest as well as choral and individual singing competitions.
“Big” prizes await the winners she added.
Different musical and dance groups will also be performing in addition to the fun and games for children and adults, she said.
UFO is urging vendors to join the event by selling Filipino dishes.
“Let us make this occasion more memorable and joyful,” Yana said.
Malasarte invited all community members to continue supporting Paskong Pinoy.
UFO, the umbrella group of 31 Filipino groups in the CNMI, has remained strong and united despite the declining population of Filipinos, Yana said.
No member-organization has severed its ties with UFO although some of its members have already left the island because of economic reasons.
Among the UFO member-organizations are Bayani Association, Bicol Association, Circulo Boholano, Cabalen, Cavite Association, CNMI Power, Filipino Community Foundation, Kapisanan Ng Mga Manggagawang Pilipino, Marianas Radio Group or MDX, Marianas Association of Filipino Engineers and Architects, Marianas Filipino Women Association, Mariana Islands Filipino Institute of CPAs, Northern Marianas Bartenders’Association, Samahang Laguna, Saipan Filipino Referees Association, Samahang Ilocano at Pangasinense, University of the Philippines Alumni Association-CNMI Chapter, and Visayas Mindanao Association.
