The Independence Day Gala, organized by the Philippine Celebrations Coordinating Committee of Hawaii (PCCCH) in partnership with the Philippine Consulate General in Honolulu, culminates the successful weeklong 2nd Filipino Food Festival at Hawaii Prince Hotel from 5 to 10 June 2016.

Hawaii Governor David and Mrs. Dawn Ige were the Guests of Honor at the Gala and other distinguished guests include senior PACOM officers General Robert Brown, Commanding General of the US Armed Forces of the Pacific (USARPAC); Lieutenant General John Toolan, Commanding General of the Marine Forces Corps of the Pacific (MARFORPAC), Captain Thomas Stuhlreyer of the US Coast Guard 14th District, Mr. and Mrs. Donn Takahashi, President of Hawaii Prince Hotel, Hawaii legislators Vice President of the Senate Will Espero, Senator Clarence Nishihara, Representative Bob Mcdermott and Representative Romy Cachola.

In her remarks, Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin Hawaii recalled the significant milestones of the Philippines and the major accomplishments of the Philippine Consulate General in the past year, noting the contributions of Filipino organizations in in the fulfillment of its objectives and thrusts.

Consul General Jamoralin cited several projects in the past year, which had elevated the profile of the Filipino community in the state, such as the historic 1st Sakada Day celebration held on 15 December 2015, the recently-concluded Philippine overseas voting where actual voter turnout was 30%, the Joint Trade Mission in February 2016 to the Philippines by the Filipino and Chinese Chambers of Commerce of Hawaii, the conduct of thirteen (13) outreach activities to the other islands of Hawaii, such as Kona, Hilo, Maui, and Kauai, as well as in American Samoa since January 2015 and the 174th Araw ng Kagitingan commemoration with Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia Jr. as Guest of Honor and Speaker.

In his remarks, Guest of Honor and Hawaii Governor David Y. Ige underscored the strong ties and friendly relations between the Philippines and Hawaii, stressing the contributions of Filipinos in the state.

The undersigned and Governor Ige led the toast for the occasion, both offering their well wishes for continued partnership and enduring relations between the United States and the Philippines.

The “Awit ng Inang Bayan” concert followed which featuring performances of Hawaii-based artists and members of the Filipino American community highlighting the richness and vibrancy of Philippine culture. (END)