Chairman’s 2009 Final Message

As we closed 2009 Philippine Weekend yesterday, I tonight I had a chance to reflect back on the month-long event that occurred this year. Santacruzan is a wonderful, beautiful event that captured our imagination. Tiny Tots, where adorable children mesmerized us with their pageant, showed us a glimpse of our yesteryear. Of course, there was the magical Saturday evening of the Mr. and Ms. Philippine Weekend Pageant where delegates showcased their individual beauty and talent and gave us a lesson of some of the Philippines’ traditional costume. The last but certainly the main event is the Barrio Fiesta where Filipino Cuisine meets fun and entertainment.

All aspects of the Philippine Weekend was, for me, touching. From the entertainers to the people behind the scenes, from the vendors to the many halo-halo & BBQ eaters. All of the hard work, ideas, and efforts put forth by everyone involved in this event seemed to come together perfectly.

On behalf of the Philippine Weekend Committee, we, the many volunteers of Philippine Weekend will continue to strive to move forward in welcoming you all home closer to Philippines. This is, after all, your Philippine Weekend and you are the reason why the volunteers were unfazed by the 100 + degree-weather.

I received many compliments about the event, and of course some complaints which were noted. We will still have our last meeting to finally close 2009 and the changes for 2010 event will be discussed. 2010 will sure sneak up on us soon enough and I’d like to read or hear your ideas, improvements, and any comments that you want us to pay attention to. Email me personally at mreyes@philippineweekend.org and I will respond promptly with each emails.

Thank you for a memorable year. Now, it is time for us to rest, relax, and recover.

To the committee: I know how hard we work each year and how committed you are all to giving your time selflessly for the sake of sharing the traditions of Philippine Weekend. Salamat! If I fail to thank you , let this be a way to show you how much each one of you is very appreciated.

Maraming salamat sa maraming bisita namin na dumako pa mula sa malalayong lugar. Ang Philippine Weekend ay hindi magiging matagumpay kung hindi dahil sa inyo na patuloy tumatangkilik sa aming mga pinaghihirapan. Sa uulitin ay magkita-kita tayong muli at magsalo-salo sa kasiyahan.