BY JOEL C. ESCOL, Managing Editor
NEW YORK CITY, New York – The Kuyamis Festival of Misamis Oriental is showcased in New York City on June 2, 2024 during the celebration of the 126th Philippine Independence Day, spearheaded by the Filipino community in New York City.
A contingent of 80 ethnic performers from Gingoog, Medina, Claveria and Magsaysay gained international mileage after they showcased their ethnic dances during the parade highlighting the Philippine Independence Day celebration in America.
At least eighty performers in traditional attire and costumes paraded down Madison Avenue in New York City, and danced to the beat of ethnic music which stunned and amazed the crowd.
Gingoog City Mayor Erick Cañosa, head of the delegation from the Philippines, was also joined by other mayors of the province.
“We are happy that we were able to showcase the Kuyamis Festival in New York,” the city mayor said.
Cañosa said it was a very memorable moment for the Filipino community in America, especially those who have not returned to the Philippines for many years.
UNITY AMONG LEADERS
The Kuyamis Festival started as a celebration of the economic importance of a specific variety of a coconut, but it has also successfully united both local leaders of Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental province.
For the first time in its 10-year history, Cagayan de Oro participated in the Kuyamis Festival, an initiative started by former Misamis Oriental governor and current Rep. Yevgeny Vincente Emano.
Contingents from various towns and cities within Misamis Oriental showcased their talents in the street dancing competition, one of the festival’s main events, held in Cagayan de Oro.
It may be recalled that political differences between previous administrations had previously hindered Cagayan de Oro’s participation in the festival. Similarly, the provincial government had been reluctant to engage in Cagayan de Oro’s Higalaay (Friendship) Festival, despite the provincial capitol being located in the city. The election of Peter Unabia as provincial governor and Rolando Uy as city mayor in 2022 marked a turning point. ###
