Sinlaku aftermath forces cancellation of 2026 Pistang Pinoy celebration

The lingering effects of Super Typhoon Sinlaku have prompted the cancellation of this year’s Pistang Pinoy celebration, ending a long-running tradition that serves as the centerpiece of Philippine Independence Day observances in the CNMI.

In a statement to the Filipino community, the United Filipino Organization said the annual event will not be held this year due to the challenges and shortages still being experienced across the CNMI following the devastating storm.

“Due to the shortages and challenges our community continues to face in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, UFO has determined that it is not feasible to conduct the annual festivities at this time,” said UFO president Carlito J. Marquez.

Instead of the usual daylong celebration featuring cultural performances, games, food vendors, raffles, and community activities, UFO will hold a simple flag-raising ceremony at 7am on June 12 at the UFO Pavilion flagpole along Beach Road in Garapan.

“There will be no formal program or ceremonial activities,” Marquez said, inviting members of the community to join in singing the Philippine national anthem as the Philippine flag is raised.

Pistang Pinoy is the CNMI Filipino community’s annual celebration of Philippine Independence Day.

While the Philippines gained full independence from the United States on July 4, 1946, Filipinos worldwide commemorate June 12, 1898, when Philippine revolutionary leader Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence from Spain after more than three centuries of colonial rule.

The celebration holds particular significance in the CNMI, where Filipinos make up one of the largest segments of the population and have played a major role in the islands’ economic and social development for decades.

Last year’s 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration transformed the covered parking area of Marianas Business Plaza into a showcase of Filipino culture and heritage.

Held under the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History), the event drew hundreds of residents and featured traditional Filipino games such as pabitin and palayok, cultural performances, live music, raffles, and food booths.

At the time, Marquez described the gathering as an opportunity for Filipinos to celebrate both their heritage and their resilience.

“This is our time to gather, remember our heroes, and celebrate our culture,” he said. “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.”

The 2025 celebration also featured performances by local singers, bands, dance groups, and students, while more than 50 businesses and organizations supported the event through sponsorships. A special message from the Philippine Consulate General in Guam was also delivered during the festivities.

This year, however, recovery from Sinlaku has taken precedence.

“We sincerely apologize to our kababayan (countrymen) for this cancellation of this year’s Pistang Pinoy celebration and appreciate your understanding during this difficult time,” Marquez said.