Alumni Update June 3 – 9, 2024

Sillimanians join the 126th Philippine Independence Day parade in Manhattan, New York

In celebration of the 126th Philippine Independence Day, the Silliman University Alumni Association of New York-New Jersey (SUAANYNJ) chapter participated in the Independence Day parade last June 2, 2024 in Manhattan, New York.

The SUAANYNJ Chapter’s red float moved through the parade route stretch from Madison Avenue, 38th Street to 27th Street. The parade captivated spectators with its colorful floats and energetic performances. Featured were the Kuyamis Festival Performances from Misamis Oriental that showcase a part of the rich heritage of the Philippines.

A yearly tradition, the SUAANYNJ chapter participates in the Manhattan Philippine Independence Day Parade, joining other Filipino-American (Fil-Am) organizations. More than 100 Fil-Am organizations and business groups took part in the Independence Day parade.

SUAANYNJ Chapter President, Juliesette Divinagracia Hatulan expressed her gratitude to the officers and members of the chapter who helped in decorating the float and joined the parade.

The parade theme for this year is “Preserving Our Filipino Culture and Heritage to Unite Generations.” This theme is a tribute to the diversity of cultures and traditions that make up our Filipino nation, and the importance of coming together in harmony and respect for one another.

Outstanding Sillimanian Awardee, Dr. Dely P. Go, participated in the parade. She was the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) Parade Grand Marshal last year.

Silliman University (SU) Trustee, Dr. Evangeline Bravo-Manjares and Outstanding Silliman Awardee, Dr. Laura Garcia also joined the SUAANYNJ parade contingent. Both are active members of the chapter.

The SUAANYNJ red float makes its way through the parade route, Madison Avenue, 38th Street to 27th Street, in Manhattan, New York.

Modesta Gamo-Dumalag (wearing red cap) poses with the power women of SUAANYNJ chapter.

Vivian Kay C. Tabaranza (front row, right), immediate past President of SUAANYNJ, with Ma. Josephine Juele Jalandoni, Joseph “Toto” Calderon, Brix Pajunar, and other chapter members.

SUAANYNJ chapter members hold up their banner to be identified.

Silliman University Trustee, Dr. Evangeline Bravo-Manjares (in red), with Juliesette Divinagracia Hatulan, SUAANYNJ President (center), with other chapter officers and members.

(L-R) Outstanding Sillimanian Awardee, Dr. Laura Garcia with Joseph “Toto” Calderon, President-Elect SUAANYNJ.

Mr. Harry and Dr. Dely Go strikes a pose before the start of the parade.

Spotted at the 126th Independence Day Manhattan Parade was Outstanding Sillimanian Awardee, Dr. Dely P. Go, with her husband Mr. Harry Go. Dr. Dely P. Go was last year’s Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) Grand Marshall.

Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) Grand Marshals and Honorary Grand Marshals, with
Dr. Dely P. Go in the background.