(L-R) Felina Velez Hassan, Arlene Obero-Pagan, Jovita “Agnes” Revilla PIDCI President Arman David | Photo by RJ Enselada
NEW YORK — Arlene Obero-Pagan was crowned Mrs. Kalayaan 2025 on May 3 at the Astoria World Manor in Queens. The event celebrated Filipino culture, community, and pride. Organized by the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI), it brought together Filipino-Americans to honor Philippine independence and heritage.
The night began with a Parade of Colors, followed by the national anthems of the Philippines and the United States. Dr. Angie Cruz-Quines led the prayer. Mrs. Kalayaan, Chairperson Ofelia S. Frias, gave welcome remarks. PIDCI President Arman David and Philippine Trade Commissioner Benedict Uy also spoke, encouraging the community to keep Filipino traditions alive.
Obero-Pagan, originally from Davao del Norte and now living in New York, was recognized for her long service as a nutritionist and her support for Filipino cultural programs. She worked in public health in the Philippines for over 15 years before moving to the U.S. In New York, she continues to promote Filipino culture, especially the arts and fashion of Mindanao. As Mrs. Kalayaan 2025, she will help lead PIDCI projects and represent the group at events leading up to the June parade.
Two other winners were also crowned. Jovita “Agnes” Revilla, from Mauban, Quezon, now living in Queens, was named Mrs. Kalayaan Philippines 2025. She is a chef who supports charities and shares Filipino culture through food. Felina Velez Hassan, born in Quezon City and now in the Bronx, was named Mrs. Kalayaan Fil-Am 2025. She works in healthcare and helps keep Filipino traditions alive in her community.
This year marks PIDCI’s 35th anniversary. The 2025 Philippine Independence Day Parade will occur on Sunday, June 1, along Madison Avenue in Manhattan. It is the biggest celebration of Philippine independence outside of the Philippines.
This year’s parade theme is Embrace and Preserve Our Culture to Unite and Empower the Future. The event will feature music, dances, regional costumes, food booths, art displays, and other fun activities that showcase Filipino culture.
The Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) is a nonprofit group founded in 2002. It aims to preserve and share Filipino heritage in the U.S. through its annual parade and cultural programs that connect Filipino-Americans across generations.
