'Larger' LGU participation seen in 2024 PH Independence Day celebration in NY

NEW YORK CITY — Ten days before Independence Day, the Filipino community in New York celebrated the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence and featured a "larger" participation by Philippine local government units (LGUs). 

Over a hundred organizations from various parts of the US paraded along Madison Avenue to commemorate the occasion.

The Knights of Rizal served as the color guards for the 34th annual celebration in the Big Apple, proudly waving the Philippine flag along Madison Avenue in New York City. The parade also featured the largest Philippine flag in the world, requiring over 50 people to unfurl it.

                                                                 Photo by Dave Llavanes Jr

Spectators eagerly awaited the various cultural presentations representing different provinces from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. 

According to New York Consul General Senen Mangalile, this year's celebration was unique due to the participation of various local government units from the Philippines.

"I believe this year is very special because we have seen a larger participation from the local government units in the Philippines coming to New York to share their festivals, to share their heritage, to share elements of their culture, and I think it enriches the celebration here in New York," said Mangalile.

GMA Pinoy TV partnered with the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) as the exclusive media partner for the celebration. —KBK, GMA Integrated News