BY JOEL C. ESCOL, Managing Editor; All photos credit to owners
Misamis Oriental’s Kuyamis Festival recently made a triumphant debut in New York, garnering praise and recognition for its successful international showcase. Second District Representative Yevgeny “Bambi” Emano, the visionary behind the Kuyamis Festival, expressed immense joy and pride over the event’s achievements. Originally conceived to promote the province’s coconut industry, the festival has evolved into a significant cultural event now celebrated on a global stage.
Mayor Meraluna Salvaleon-Abrogar, who participated in the New York showcase, expressed her delight at connecting with fellow Filipinos in the United States. Representing her hometown, which secured second place in the 2024 Kuyamis Festival, she actively participated in the parade, donning traditional tribal attire and performing cultural dances. Her participation highlighted the deep cultural connections shared among Filipinos abroad.
Magsaysay Town Mayor Charlie Buhisan proudly supported his contingent during their stay in New York. He emphasized the importance of showcasing the Kuyamis Festival internationally to instill pride among the Filipino community in New York, which numbers over 400,000. Similarly, Medina Mayor Donato Chan provided financial support for his town’s contingent, many of whom were traveling abroad for the first time, making the experience particularly memorable.
Gingoog City Mayor Erick Cañosa highlighted the festival’s role in promoting Misamis Oriental’s culture, tourism, and coconut industry. He praised the event’s impact, noting that Kuyamis is a unique variety of coconut native to the province. Governor Peter Unabia’s enthusiasm for promoting the festival globally has been a driving force behind its success. Cañosa emphasized that the festival is an opportunity to showcase the province’s culture, boost tourism, and revitalize the coconut industry, contributing to the development of the agricultural sector with government support.
The efforts and unwavering support of Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia were widely acknowledged and honored by the mayors and the festival contingent. Unabia expressed pride in the province’s achievements and the international recognition of the Kuyamis Festival. Congressman Emano, the festival’s founder, reiterated that the festival was created to promote Kuyamis, a coconut variety that has thrived in the province for centuries, and has since grown into a significant cultural and tourist-oriented event held annually in Misamis Oriental.
The parade in New York was organized by the Philippine Independence Day Council (PIDC), Inc., a nonprofit organization based in the city. PIDC President Arman David highlighted the importance of commemorating Philippine independence to preserve Filipino heritage and culture among the diaspora, particularly in New York. David emphasized that with over 400,000 Filipinos in New York City, it is crucial to continue celebrating Filipino heritage for future generations. The theme for this year, “To preserve Filipino heritage and culture for future generations,” underscores the significance of uniting future Filipino-American generations.
The celebration also featured Filipino food and products, drawing participation from various Filipino organizations, further enhancing the sense of community and cultural pride among the attendees. The success of the Kuyamis Festival in New York is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Misamis Oriental and the enduring spirit of the Filipino people, both at home and abroad. ###
