MAKE IT MAKATI:115 YEARS OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE

I am really amazed as I witnessed the grand celebration of 115 years of Philippine Independence which was held at Ayala Triangle, City of Makati. 

With bamboo, a strong and useful material that is also exceptionally Pinoy as its main instrument, Makati 2013 Independence Celebration unveiled the first ever Philippine Bamboo Flag Museum. 

A never ending appreciation from my part as they featured a variety of Filipino culture entertainment just like Philippine Cultural Shows by the Palihang Hagonoy. Young and talented students  presented their dancing prowess with Tinikling, Singkil, and Palo Sebo dance numbers. Guests were also treated with the traditional Balagtasan (Filipino poetry) that intrigued the audience on which is more beneficial, the Bamboo or the Coconut Tree? The likewise musically gifted Banda Kawayan from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines graced the occasion and awed the audience with their one-of-a-kind musical performances using bamboo instruments. 

We have more to celebrate, ka-Momsie because on June 15, families, kids, and friends especially art fanatics can join the Independence Sketchfest activity, an on-the-spot sketching competition where exciting cash prizes and consolation prizes await the winners. To also promote Filipino sportsmanship and celebrate our being world-class, people should look forward to a giant chess installation at the lawn area of Ayala Triangle Gardens that will also be available to the public from June 11 to end of July. Exhibition games are slated for various universities where they will be joined by world renowned Filipino Chess Master himself, Eugene Torre.

Just as the Philippines is fast gaining momentum as an emerging leader in Asia, Makati has consistently gained and solidified its reputation as the country’s leading city that makes it all happen, the perfect venue for a one-of-a-kind Independence Day celebration.

"I am proud to be a Filipino!" This is what most Filipinos always exclaim with dignity which is why we were able to cope up from all challenges and difficulties that the past brought us. And until now that "FREEDOM" is still in our hands! :)

The Independence Day celebration in Makati was made possible by Make It Makati, MasterCard, Philippine Star, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Business Mirror, AXN, Banapple Pies and Cheesecakes, and Canon.

For more information, visit www.makeitmakati.com or check out facebook.com/makeitmakati and twitter.com/makeitmakati.