- April 25, 2024
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Aida Seguritan smiles during the folk dance. Photo by Paige Wilson
Dr. Edwin and Sally Siroy are among the folk dancers. Photo by Paige Wilson
PAAPC members dance to a traditional folk song. Photo by Paige Wilson
FCSO Cmdr. Philip Reynolds was the guest speaker at the PAAPC independence celebration. Photo by Paige Wilson
Luz Vergara is among the folk dance performers. Photo by Paige Wilson
Maria Sadio, choreographer Beth Stevens and Magie Sadio perform "Gaway-gaway." Photo by Paige Wilson
Dr. Edwin and Sally Siroy perform a folk dance. Photo by Paige Wilson
PAAPC President Sarah Penaflor shows her excitement on the dance floor. Photo by Paige Wilson
Rey and Benie Mayo perform a folk dance. Photo by Paige Wilson
Benie Mayo and Luz Vergara perform a folk dance. Photo by Paige Wilson
PAAPC President Sarah Penflor and her husband Joe Penflor dance. Photo by Paige Wilson
PAAPC members demonstrate a traditional folk dance. Photo by Paige Wilson
As members of the Philippine American Association of Palm Coast performed folk dances while donning traditional Filipino attire, their contagious energy radiated throughout the VFW Post 8696 building on Old Kings Road N. on the evening of Saturday, June 16.
A packed house celebrated 120 years of Philippine independence as a sovereign nation from the rule of Spain. After dinner was served, PAAPC members flooded the dance floor for countless songs. PAAPC President Sarah Penaflor welcomed guests, and Flagler County Commissioner Nate McLaughlin read the proclamation.
Though she was not in attendance, Palm Coast Mayor Milissa Holland wrote in a letter to the PAAPC for the event: "The Philippine American Association is one of our most cherished partners in this active, thriving community. As such, it is also my privilege to recognize the 26 years of your selfless service to Palm Coast. As your neighbors and friends, it is essential for our citizens to pay tribute to members of a Philippine organization whose integrity and respect shines with everything that they accomplish, for every citizen whose life they touch."
The guest speaker was Flagler County Sheriff's Office Cmdr. Philip Reynolds, who shared his father's journey moving from the Philippines to the U.S. He said his parents have been members of PAAPC since the early '90s, and he has been with FCSO for 18 years.
Reynolds' speech focused on inspiring youth to accomplish their goals.
"Never give up," Reynolds said. "Take setbacks and use it as fuel to move forward."
