VIA Times – October 2017 Issue Vital News, Vibrant VIews for Asian Americans in Chicago & Midwest
WASHINGTON, D.C. — More than 100 guests from the Metro DC community joined the Istorya DC symposium held at the Philippine Embassy Chancery Annex in the evening of 19 October 2017.
Promised to be a night of “Music and Motion”, Istorya DC captured the hearts of the audience with impressive musical and dance performances that truly showcased the best of Filipino culture through the years.
“The goal of Istorya-DC to be an annual educational platform for Filipino-American culture and history in DC, Maryland and Virginia is very commendable,” said Philippine Embassy Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Minister Patrick A. Chuasoto in his opening remarks.
“This celebration is a reminder of our roots and where we continue to stand as a nation. Filipino Americans should be inspired to help document Filipino history in the DMV area. I think it is important for the next generation of Filipino-Americans to have access to cultural and educational materials that chronicle their community’s journey and contributions to the social fabric in the United States,” the Minister further emphasized.
Ms. Rita Cacas of the Rita M. Cacas Foundation, Inc., the main proponent of Istorya DC, also welcomed the guests and gave a rundown of the program and performances.
“Today, we celebrate Filipino American History Month and Archives Month. This year’s symposium celebrates DC area Filipino dance and music culture,” said Ms. Cacas.
During the interview sessions moderated by Dr. Theodore Gonzalves, Ms. Carmen Lagdameo-Stull recounted her experiences as a former member of the Bayanihan Dance Company, while active soloist, concertmaster, and chamber musician Mr. Regino Madrid delighted the audience with an excellent violin performance.
Other musical performances that captivated the audience include The Filipino Cultural Association of the University of Maryland’s “Pandanggo sa Ilaw”, Soprano Teresa Ferrera Blessing’s rendition of “Over my Head”, and Tanghalang Pilipino ng DC, The Angklung Ensemble’s interpretation of various Filipino folk songs.
Prior to the formal program, guests enjoyed a simple reception showcasing Filipino food from Filipino restaurants and caterers in the metro. They also had the chance to examine and appreciate the archival exhibits displayed all around the social hall of the Chancery Annex, while enjoying the music being played by DC deejay Les Talusan.
Istorya is a Filipino word for “story”. Istorya DC is an annual, educational gathering during the month of October to celebrate Filipino American History month and Archives month. This year’s Istorya DC symposium was spearheaded by The Rita M. Cacas Foundation, Inc. in collaboration with the Philippine Embassy, Philippines on the Potomac (POPDC), and the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA). ###
The Filipino Cultural Association of the University of Maryland performs “Pandanggo sa Ilaw” at the 2017 Istorya DC symposium held at the Philippine Embassy Chancery Annex on 19 October 2017.
Performers and organizers of the 2017 Istorya DC symposium pose for a photo after the very successful and well-attended program.
