20 June 2012 - The Filipino-American community in Chicago celebrated the 114th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence at the Chicago Children's Museum (CCM) in Navy Pier from June 14 to 16.
Philippine Consul General to Chicago Leo M. Herrera-Lim graced the opening ceremony of the three-day celebration on June 14.
In his opening remarks, he thanked CCM for hosting the celebration of the Philippine Independence Day for the past five years, giving the Filipino-American community the opportunity to showcase the country's diverse and rich cultural heritage to the patrons of the museum.
The three-day celebration included a daily cultural program that showcased Filipino folk songs, original Pilipino music (OPM), the Rondalla, and traditional dances; children's book reading; hands-on activities for kids, like an art workshop with familiar art materials and techniques using Filipino-themed images; Philippine mask making, Baybayin, an ancient Philippine writing system; demonstration of Philippine Martial Arts (eskrima, kali and arnis); learning and playing popular Filipino children's games and pabitin; as well as a free sampling of Filipino flavored mango and ube ice cream.
This year's celebration is part of CCM's annual "Passport to the World" program.
The highlight of the three-day celebration was a parade of colorful costumes from different regions of the country on June 16 at the Navy Pier grounds.
Vice Consul Alena S. Borra and Cultural Officer Berth D. Salvador led the Filipino American community in the parade that was well attended and applauded by visitors and onlookers.