Saipan's Filipino Community Celebrates 127th PH Independence Day with Pista

The United Filipino Organization CNMI marked the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence with the annual “Pistang Pinoy” celebration last Sunday, June 8, transforming the Marianas Business Plaza’s covered parking lot into a vibrant showcase of Filipino pride, talent, and unity.

Although Philippine independence was officially granted on July 4, 1946, Filipinos worldwide commemorate the symbolic declaration of freedom from Spanish colonial rule on June 12, 1898. For practicality, the Saipan event was held on a Sunday to ensure maximum community participation.

“This is our time to gather, remember our heroes, and celebrate our culture,” said UFO president Carlito J. Marquez. “It’s not just about food and performances—it’s about remembering what our ancestors fought for and passing on that pride to the next generation.”

Marquez said this year’s event, themed Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan (Freedom, Future, History), was both a cultural homecoming and a reminder of the community’s resilience.

Traditional Filipino games such as pabitin and palayok were played by children, while performers donned Filipino attire and took the stage for folk dances and live music.

Performers included community singers like Kimberly Abina Belza of Homesmart Residences, the Sessionista and Playmates bands, the Profound Dancers Group, and students from Green Meadow School. One highlight was the cultural number by the Marianas Lady Eagles and Kai Ortiz. Raffles and the crowd-favorite “Spin the Wheel” kept the energy high throughout the half-day fiesta.

Marquez also addressed the Filipino community’s ongoing challenges on Saipan, particularly immigration. “Our workers now face probationary limits, and many must return to the Philippines after three years,” he said. “It’s the biggest challenge we face.” Asked about undocumented Filipinos, he added, “We can only follow the law. If someone is undocumented, they must face the consequences.”

Despite these struggles, the spirit of solidarity among the Filipino diaspora remains strong. Vendor Arlene Calvo, who served up Filipino favorites, said, “I am proud to be a Filipino. Independence means freedom—for all of us around the world.”

Jerome Manzon, one of the many attendees, called the event “a celebration of what makes us Filipino.” “It’s more than just food and music—it’s about embracing our culture and remembering who we are,” he said.

The celebration was made possible by generous support from over 50 sponsors, including RNV Construction (gold sponsor), IT&E (bronze sponsor), Aqua Resort Club Saipan, Joeten Enterprises, Coca-Cola Micronesia, McDonald’s Guam & Saipan, and many others.

In the raffle drawing, Marvin Buston of HBR International won a free roundtrip ticket to the Philippines courtesy of Super Tech, M. Zayco bagged $300 courtesy of Macro Accounting, Maria Gloria Balila pocketed $200 courtesy of Val Cruz, and Rhea Agusto took home $100 courtesy of UFO.

A special message from Philippine consul Joaquin Ricardo Aragon from the Philippine Consulate General in Guam was delivered during the program, alongside invocations and national anthems.

For Marquez and many others, Saipan has become more than just a second home—it’s a community where cultures converge, but Filipino pride shines brightly. “The locals welcome us,” he said. “We’re proud to be here, and we feel like we belong.”