Pride, culture and unity in Cyprus

Last 15 June at the Eleftheria Square in Nicosia, Cyprus, Filipinos came alive with vibrant colors, rhythmic beats and heartfelt patriotism as the Filipino community in Cyprus commemorated the 127th Philippine Independence Day with this year’s resonant theme: “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History).”

The festivities unfolded in a dynamic three-part program that reflected the spirit, resilience and unity of Filipinos abroad. It began with a lively “Parada,” which started at Nicosia Municipal Park and made its way to Eleftheria Square — more than 500 people came in attendance. Various Filipino community organizations proudly marched in regional and national attire, waving Philippine and Cypriot flags — welcoming each contingent, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of the Filipino diaspora and joyful solidarity.

The “Kalayaan” program transformed the square into a cultural stage, beginning with the Philippine national anthem, an invocation and remarks from an esteemed roster of guests.

Notable attendees included Chrysanthos Fakas, deputy mayor of Nicosia; Maria Koushiou, president of SPAVO (Association for the Prevention and Handling of Violence in the Family); Dr. Andri Andronikou, director of SPAVO, Mrs. Skevi Koukouma, former member of Parliament and chairperson of the House Standing Committee on Refugees, Enclaved, Missing and Adversely Affected Persons; Mr. Costas Constanti, Political Council member of Volt Cyprus; Helena Alegre, Filipina artist and recent awardee of the Ayia Napa World Art Triennale, who showcased her sculptural jewelry pieces for the community; and H.E. Giovanni Palec, non-resident ambassador of the Philippines to Cyprus, who delivered an inspiring keynote address.

Honorary Consul Charmagne Garcia-Laconico offered heartfelt welcoming remarks. She said, “Freedom, or kalayaan, is a hard-earned gift from those who came before us. This celebration calls on us not only to honor our roots, our heritage and our identity shaped by history, but also to look forward to a brighter future — isang bago at mas maunlad na kinabukasan. The light of the future rests in our hands. Through our vigilance, our commitment and our dedication to safeguarding our freedom and identity, we ensure the continued progress of our nation.”

Cultural vignettes traced the Filipino journey across history — Pre-Colonial, Spanish, Post-Colonial and Modern Diaspora eras — brought to life through traditional dances like Itik-Itik, Cariñosa, Tiklos, Tinikling and soul-stirring renditions of “Bayan Ko” and “Tagumpay Nating Lahat.”

The final segment, “Barrio Fiesta sa Europa,” brought everyone together in celebration of Filipino cuisine and community. The festive mood was elevated with open-mic performances, modern music, dancing and a highly anticipated raffle — highlighted by a roundtrip ticket to Manila courtesy of Gulf Air.

As the Philippine flag waved proudly over the crowd and voices united in the cry “Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!” the celebration stood as a powerful reminder: the Filipino spirit remains strong, connected and thriving — no matter how far from home.