Festival celebrates Filipino culture

The Fil-Amer Association of California held a two-day celebration of Filipino culture and heritage on Sept. 29 and 30 at Veterans Park in Porterville.

Chairman of the Association Arcadio Ninobla gave the opening address. The opening prayer was presented by Pastor Wayne Picar of the Temple of Praise Christian Fellowship in Porterville.

The Sunday morning service was conducted at the park by Pastor Dennis Atchazo of Acts II Christian Fellowship in Poplar.

The American national anthem was sung by Charice Soliman of Monache High and the Philippine national anthem was sung by Lian Rafanan.

Food, games, dances, a car show and a basketball tournament were all part of the festival.

The torches were lit by Mr and Mrs. Floro Rafanan and Mr. and Mrs. Jun Rafanan.

Organizers appreciated all of the donors and the support for the local event and are eagerly anticipating next year’s festival.

“May God bless us all, till we meet again next year,” Fil-Amer Association of California founding adviser Eby Agpaoa said.