NaFFAA NV celebrates 126th Philippine Independence Day In Las Vegas

From left: NaFFAA DMR President Sally Balecha, NaFFAA National Trustee and Hon. Consul of Southern Nevada Amie Belmonte, NaFFAA National Trustee Art De Joya, NaFFAA National Founding Co-Chair Gloria Caoile, NaFFAA National President Mariela Fletcher, NaFFAA NV President Jacque de Joya and NaFFAA National Trustee Gio Duaqui. CONTRIBUTED

LAS VEGAS – The National Federation of Filipino American Association (NaFFAA) NV recently hosted an unforgettable gala to commemorate the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence.

“With an unprecedented attendance of over 400 guests, the event was a testament to the unity and pride of the Filipino-American community,” said NaFFAA NV President Jacque de Joya.

It was a night of excellence with the gala program meticulously curated, encompassing all facets of NaFFAA NV’s mission.

Here are some highlights:

• Scholarship Awards – NaFFAA NV recognized the academic achievements of high school students who are embarking on their college journeys. These scholarships serve as a beacon of hope for their futures.

NaFFAA NV scholarship awardees / CONTRIBUTED

• Community leaders honored – The event celebrated 35 community leaders who have tirelessly worked to uplift and empower the Filipino American community. Their dedication and passion were acknowledged with well-deserved accolades.
• Cultural Showcase – The gala kicked off with a mesmerizing Rigodon De Honor performance by NaFFAA NV officers and members. This traditional Filipino dance not only honored the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage but also set the tone for an enchanting evening.

The gala was opened by the Songspell  Performing Arts Davao with the Philippine national anthem and a nationalistic song in dance.  The US national anthem was performed by Breanna de Santos.

Songspell Performing Arts Davao / CONTRIBUTED

Empowering evening

Distinguished candidates for office in the State of Nevada graced the event, emphasizing their appreciation for the Filipino American community’s numbers and the value of their vote.

Their presence underscored the community’s influence and impact. NaFFAA NV was also presented with proclamations from the offices of the governor of Nevada and the mayor of Las Vegas.

For the first time ever, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department participated in full force, with Capt. Katie Geiger assuring the Fil-Am community, “you can call on us for any assistance you may need.”

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department participated in full force, with Capt. Katie Geiger (center) saying the Fil-Am community “can call on us for any assistance” they may need. CONTRIBUTED

“You have created an event beyond compare and showed the strength and unity of NaFFAA NV,” said NaFFAA National President Mariela Fletcher in her remarks.

Maria Alnee A. Gamble,  acting head of post at the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, delivered congratulatory remarks and an update on programs that affect the Fil-Am communities. Philippine Honorary Consul Amie Belmonte presented updates on the services provided by her office in Las Vegas.

NaFFAA NV thanked donors G Bank, Nuerology Center of NV, Magical Entertainment, Filipinotown Magazine, CMC Boutique, ito Solutions and US Bank.

As the night unfolded, the dance floor came alive. Attendees reveled in the joy of celebration, moving to lively tunes and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

“The spirit of unity and resilience echoed throughout the ballroom, reinforcing the bonds that tie the Filipino American community together,” said NaFFAA NV President Jacque de Joya.