Around 120 participants from various parts of Uzbekistan gathered at School No. 65 in the Mirabod District of Tashkent to witness the lively celebration of Philippine culture and heritage.
The event, held in honor of the 127th Philippine Independence Day, was marked as Filipino Cultural Day, highlighting the vibrant traditions, values, and unity of the Filipino community in Uzbekistan.
Organized under the leadership of Ms. Amor Dela Cruz, President of the Filipino Community in Uzbekistan, the event showcased the richness of Filipino traditions through cultural performances, traditional cuisine, and interactive presentations.
As the first event of Filipino Community in Uzbekistan it was centered on uniting individuals and developing friendship among the Filipino and Uzbek communities aiming to foster cross-cultural understanding.
The recent cultural event was brought to life by a stunning performance from the Filipino Cultural Dancers, captivating the audience with their graceful and energetic number. The group was choreographed by Mr. Mark Vince Taguinod, whose creative direction highlighted the rich heritage of Filipino dance. The talented dancers included: Angel Kaye Ceniza, Dorothy Bess Dumalahay, John Manuel Delos Reyes, Belinda Coo, Brian Jude Burabod and Felimar P. Calcena.
Adding to the festive atmosphere were the event’s singers, whose brilliant performances elevated the program. They were Foman Dela Cruz, Ronald Rodrigo Jurado and Angel Kaye Ceniza.
Their powerful and heartfelt renditions kept the audience engaged and uplifted throughout the program.
It was made even more memorable by the attendance of some very special guests, to wit: Philippine Honorary Consul, Mr. Bekhbat Sodnom, and his wife, Mrs. Selenge; Dr. Joel Runnels, USAID Education Officer Mr. Louis Train, an Education Expert Advisor of the Ministry of Education; and Mrs. Naima Kambarova, former Director of School No. 65. Their visit underscored the growing recognition and appreciation of the worth of the Filipino community to education and cultural exchange in Uzbekistan.
Hosting the event with warmth and professionalism were Ms. Rina Joy Julian and Mr. Jude Patrick Catalan, who guided the program smoothly from start to finish.
The event was a celebration of culture, talent, and community spirit—truly a night to remember.
Ambassador Roberto G. Manalo recently administered the oath of office to the newly elected officers of the Filipino Community in Uzbekistan (FilCom), marking a historic milestone as the first officially organized Filipino group in the country. He was assisted by Philippine Honorary Consul Bekhbat Sodnom during the ceremony. The newly elected officers are as follows: President, Amor Dela Cruz; Vice President (Internal), Daryl Dellbee Alfanta; Secretary, Cecile Francisco; Auditor, Robwela Noronha; Treasurer, Lucille Johnalyn Ilao; Public Relations Officer, Ms. Aiko Joy Espiritu and Social Welfare Officer is Maria Evangeline Simon.
According to Ms. Desiree Brigola, a member of the Election Committee, this marked a historic moment for Filipinos in Uzbekistan, as it was the first official election of community officers. “It was a significant milestone,” she said. “Moments like this lay the foundation for stronger representation and unity among Filipinos abroad.”
The committee worked tirelessly, demonstrating full commitment and integrity to ensure a credible and orderly electoral process for the Filipino community in Uzbekistan.
Ms. Brigola, along with other committee members, Ms. Rye Alfonso, Ms. Ainne Dela Cruz, and Ms. Lauren Sale is serving under the leadership of Mr. Jhon Eljohn Supnet, who chairs the committee.
