By Ryan Tejero and Gerry Gagalac
The recent success of the 2nd Annual Filipino Heritage Night brought so much pride to the Filipino American community in RGV and in the surrounding cities. Organized and coordinated by outstanding FilAm leaders Gerry Gagalac and Kurt Lumactud, the event created a centerpiece for Filipino cultural showcase. The Filipino Heritage Night was a collaborative project between the organizers and the South Texas Filam Basketball Commissioner Kenny Carino and other leaders of South Texas/RGV groups.
Since its inception last year, the Filipino Heritage Night had given rare opportunities for cultural performances during the pre and in game entertainment segments of the game. FilAm group performed a variety of traditional dances at the entrance of the arena. People were greeted by the colorful costumes and dance performances. The cultural presentations continued during the 2 quarter breaks and the halftime. A variety of Filipino folk dancing and modern dance numbers became the theme of entertainment. Cultural performances were provided by Arnulfo Tatoy Foundation group, Sanlahi dancers, Ifugao group, Pagapir group, Singkil group and Bukidnon group.
FilAm groups took the opportunity to sell Red Pinoy/Vipers shirts. Most of the FilAms who were at the game also wore the Filipino shirts on sale. Popular Filipino food and delicacies were also sold at the game to the delight of FilAms and even the non-Filipino guests. The success of the event was a concerted efforts of the various groups and several Filipino business owners who helped sponsor the event. Hundreds of Pinoy basketball fans and enthusiasts from the Valley rushed to watch the Pinoy pride performances and the historic game.
Before the Vipers game, FilAm ballers played at the Arena with Barangay G as the 2024 Filipino Heritage Basketball Champion with the team captain Gerry Gagalac. RGV Vipers sponsored the champion trophy and basketball Commissioner Kenny Carino sponsored all the awards and the event.
The event was graced by Filipino celebrities in the Valley which include former Elite Ms. Texas Petite 2023, and Ms. Filipino Heritage 2024, Ivy Dano, DJ Alex, Padini for Photography, Julyan for singing the national anthem, Quennie as emcee, Bong and Gab as flag bearers.
There are already bigger plans for next year’s Filipino Heritage Night. The organizers are adding the 5k Run, 3 on 3 basketball for youth and entertainment rides outside the Arena. There will be additional FIlAM basketball Teams to play at the Arena.
The following groups were involved in this year’s successful event: Filipino-American Association of the RGV Inc. (FAARGV), Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce RGV TX, Philippine Nurses Association of Rio Grande Valley TX, Araw ng Ating Kalayaan (ANAK), Padini Santiago photography, Cris photography of Vipers, Kenny Carino’s South Texas Filam Basketball and One Philippines Texas Newsmagazine.
As the organizer, Gerry Gagalac said, “As we grow bigger and better, let’s continue to support our events and be united for a stronger FilAm community. Thanks to Sandy Vasquez, Chris Inoferio of RGV Vipers and Rene Borrego, Vipers CEO and President for embracing our culture and FilAm community. Mabuhay Rio Grande Valley Pinoys!
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