THE Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. hosted an Independence Day Ball in commemoration of the 123rd Philippine Independence Day last June 5, 2021 at the Astoria World Manor in Astoria, New York.

“It was an enjoyable evening, meeting the community leaders and friends again after more than a year due to the pandemic,” Joann Carman, president Filipino Social Club of NY Inc., said in an email to SunStar.

The event was held virtually and was opened by a parade of colors.

Consul General of New York Elmer Cato and the Deputy Consul General Arman Talbo attended the event.

“Celebrating our Philippine Independence Day is not the same without the actual parade in Manhattan, but because of the (Covid-19) pandemic, we just have to do what we have to do to stay safe,” Carman said. (PR)