2026 PIDCI President Lea Frain unveils 2026 theme | Photo by Joros Razon
NEW YORK — With the world‑famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree shimmering just beyond the floor‑to‑ceiling windows, the Equinox at Rockefeller Center offered an exquisite setting for the turnover ceremony of new officers of the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which has organized the largest Independence Day parade in the Northeast for over 35 years. Perched above the bustling plaza, the venue’s warm lighting and panoramic views created a festive yet dignified atmosphere for an evening that blended tradition, community pride, and renewed leadership.
The ceremony marked the official transition of responsibilities for the annual Independence Day Parade on Madison Avenue. This June celebration draws tens of thousands of Filipino Americans and supporters each year. For decades, the parade has served as a cultural anchor for the diaspora, showcasing Filipino heritage, civic engagement, and artistic expression on one of New York City’s most iconic avenues.
A New Leadership Team
Past president Arman David presented incoming president Ofelia “Lea” Frain, a tireless community leader who has served in several organizations for more than two decades, with a gavel, a symbol of leadership, responsibility, and PIDCI’s continued mission.
In her speech, she outlined her vision to strengthen PIDCI’s legacy by fostering deeper collaboration among Filipino American organizations to ensure inclusivity and representation. She added expanding youth engagement through leadership programs, volunteer opportunities, and mentorship. She also pledged to continue the current practices of transparency and integrity.
Frain introduced the team for 2026. Nonong Aquino, Jr., vice president; Jovel Golingan, treasurer/director; Joyce Andes-David, secretary/director. The PIDCI board of directors is composed of April Piamonte-Aquino, Chris Bejar, Betty Corrales, Bong Echavez, Sol Kapunan, Merilyn Loja, Randel Maglantay, Maria Nucum, Arnel Piamonte, and Matt Danny Reyes.
Comprising the PIDCI staff are Nora Galleros, executive director; Arman David, executive adviser; Aida Tagle, chief of staff; Manny Quintal, general counsel; Janeth Blake, auditor; Czar Lopez, compliance officer; and Consul General Senen Mangalile, honorary adviser.
Frain also unveiled PIDCI’s theme this year, framed beautifully, which read, “Let Us Live the Freedom We Celebrate and Lift the Nation We Love” – the first time a theme was said in English.
Grand Marshals Presented to the Community
A highlight of the evening was the formal introduction of the 2026 Grand Marshals—Sally Nunez, Maria Lea Batomalaque, and Florida Lucas —three business partners who built a thriving nursing registry agency serving hospitals, clinics, and long‑term care facilities across the region. Their selection, organizers said, reflects the Filipino community’s deep and longstanding contributions to the healthcare profession.
Nunez and Batomalaque were visibly moved as they were presented, expressed gratitude for the honor, and emphasized that the recognition extends to the thousands of Filipino nurses and caregivers who continue to serve on the frontlines.
“We stand here not just as business partners,” one of them shared, “but as representatives of the many Filipino healthcare workers whose dedication strengthens this city every day. This honor belongs to all of them.” Florida Lucas could not make it to the event.
After the remarks of Nunez and Batomalaque, Matt Reyes, chair of the event, offered a toast to officially launch the 2026 PIDCI celebrations and honor the leaders and Grand Marshals who will make this year unforgettable.
Consul General Delivers Keynote Message
Mangalile, who served as the evening’s keynote speaker, praised the new Grand Marshals for their leadership and service. He underscored the importance of community unity and the parade’s role in uplifting Filipino identity on the global stage.
“The Independence Day Parade is more than a commemoration of our history,” he said. “It is a celebration of our people—our achievements, our resilience, and our shared journey. Tonight, we welcome leaders who embody the very best of our community.”
He also acknowledged the outgoing officers and volunteers whose dedication ensured the success of last year’s parade, noting that the event continues to grow in scale, visibility, and cultural impact.
A Professional, Engaging Emcee
The evening’s program flowed seamlessly thanks to the skillful emceeing of Jocelyn Bernal, whose professionalism, timing, and warm stage presence kept the audience engaged throughout the night. Her delivery—clear, confident, and well‑projected—guided each segment with ease, ensuring the program remained lively and on schedule.
Guests praised her ability to connect with the audience, transition smoothly between formal presentations and festive moments, and maintain the celebratory spirit of the occasion. Her performance added polish to the event and contributed significantly to the evening’s success.
Dancing, Music, and a Captivating Performance
As the formalities concluded, the celebration shifted into a joyful New Year‑season gathering. Guests filled the dance floor for line dancing, laughter echoing across the room as community members of all ages joined in familiar steps. The camaraderie was unmistakable—an expression of the warmth and joy that characterize Filipino gatherings.
A standout moment came from a four‑member female dance ensemble whose performance captivated the audience. The choreography—graceful, dynamic, and infused with cultural flair—drew enthusiastic applause. Many described the number as “noble,” “elegant,” and “mesmerizing,” adding a touch of artistry to the evening’s festivities. The dance ensemble was composed of all the Mrs. Kalayaan awardees from previous years, mainly: Felina Hassan, Arlene Obero, Catherine Raines, and Tes Songco. They danced a version of Sayaw sa Payong, with the music Tiniklos.
When asked how they practiced the cultural presentation with such precision, Songco said, “We just shared the dance steps in our group chat a week before the event and practiced at the venue that night.”
Looking Ahead to June on Madison Avenue
Throughout the night, the glow of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree remained visible through the windows, serving as a symbolic reminder of the Filipino community’s enduring presence in the heart of New York City. For many attendees, the juxtaposition of the holiday landmark with the turnover ceremony underscored the community’s ability to weave its traditions into the broader cultural fabric of the city.
As guests mingled, posed for photos, and shared memories of past parades, excitement for the upcoming June celebration was palpable. Organizers confirmed that planning is already underway, with expectations that this year’s parade will continue its legacy of showcasing Filipino heritage, arts, and civic pride.
A Night of Unity and Renewal
The turnover ceremony closed with renewed energy and optimism. With new leadership at the helm, strong support from the Philippine Consulate, and a community eager to celebrate its identity, the stage is set for another historic Independence Day Parade on Madison Avenue.
For many who attended, the evening was more than a formal transition—it was a reminder of the power of unity, the strength of shared heritage, and the enduring pride of being Filipino in New York.
