Pasko in America 2024: A Filipino Christmas Celebration Made Possible by PAGCOR
East Rutherford, NJ — December 7, 2024 — The spirit of a Filipino Christmas came alive at American Dream Mall’s Court A as Pasko in America 2024 brought together Filipino families and communities in a festive celebration filled with music, games, and Filipino traditions. The event, proudly presented by its major sponsor, the Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corporation (PAGCOR), highlighted the joy and warmth of Filipino culture while underscoring the agency’s unwavering support for community-centered initiatives.
Established in 1977, PAGCOR stands as a pillar of national development in the Philippines, serving as the third-largest source of government revenue. Its mission extends beyond gaming regulation, encompassing contributions to socio-civic programs and the promotion of Filipino heritage and tourism. Through its sponsorship, PAGCOR played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of Pasko in America, bringing the richness of Filipino traditions to the heart of New Jersey.
The celebration was officially opened by Fernando Mendez, CEO and president of Philippine Fiesta USA, with mass celebrated by Fr. Dani Dela Peña and Fr. Emerson Francisco. The warm welcome extended to all, including esteemed guests from the Philippine Consulate General in New York, set the tone for an inclusive and festive celebration.
Tradition, talent and trivia
From the first strums of the Filipino rondalla by the University of the Philippines Alumni & Friends Rondalla and the Philippine Chamber Rondalla of New Jersey, the crowd was immersed in Filipino heritage. D’Divas of St. Vincent, Bayonne’s beloved line-dance enthusiasts, dazzled the audience, while a lively Mano Po game engaged everyone and highlighted the Filipino value of respect for elders, even if the contestants’ age gap with the people they did Mano Po were not much older than them.
Mano po is a traditional Filipino gesture of respect, performed by taking an elder's hand and gently touching it to one's forehead while saying "Mano po," which means "Bless me with your hand."
The event featured engaging performances by young talents Jiro Ferrer and Brennan de los Santos, followed by the Nursing Trivia Quiz Show, which highlighted the contributions of Filipino nurses in the US. The blend of medical knowledge and pop culture offered an entertaining and educational experience for the participating nurses and audience.
Mendez welcomed the consul members from the Philippine Consulate General of New York -- Mr. and Ms. Raul and Rizza Cuartero and Mr. Noli Sosi -- who spoke briefly about the significance of collaboration and unity in ensuring the success of Pasko in America.
A key highlight of the event was the Parade of Parols, where sponsors and exhibitors came onstage brandishing Pasko’s iconic parols, showcasing the vibrant artistry and spirit of Filipino Christmas. The parade was graced by the presence of Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio, whose attendance underscored the event’s significance to the local Filipino-American community. The dazzling display of colorful lanterns symbolized unity and joy, adding a unique visual spectacle to the festivities.
As the afternoon unfolded, New York-based artist Lirazen Rose took the stage, captivating the audience with her soulful renditions, while kids delighted in a high-spirited game of Musical Chairs, led by Broadway DJ Ube, Nathan Angelo. His dynamic energy kept the crowd engaged throughout the day.
Kids take over the stage
In a heartwarming moment, children took over the stage, showcasing their excitement and spontaneity during parlor games like Musical Chairs, while the adults kept on the Christmas-themed Bring Me. Their joy was infectious, as families from various backgrounds cheered them on, adding a lively energy that transcended cultures. A highlight of the event was the multicultural audience that joined in the fun. Mallgoers from diverse backgrounds eagerly participated in the line dancing led by the Bibboloysius Dancers of New Jersey and D’Divas. Bibboloysius’ instructor, Roly Ansano, brought the crowd together with an irresistible blend of rhythm and camaraderie, creating a beautiful tapestry of cultures moving in harmony.
The Band of Brothers, only two of the four in the group because of prior commitements, continued the momentum with nostalgic performances of oldies but goodies, and the Pinoy Christmas Trivia drew teams of enthusiastic participants, showcasing their knowledge of Filipino holiday traditions.
The evening culminated with an amazing performance by Cebu-born balladeer TJ Castanares. His powerful renditions of “O Holy Night” and “Defying Gravity” left the audience spellbound. But the real surprise came when DJ Nathan Angelo brought the house down, stepping out from behind the stage to perform a rousing version of “My Way” all the way to the escalator. The audience erupted in applause, singing along in a moment of pure celebration and connection.
Sponsors and exhibitors included: AARP New Jersey, angelwreaths, Bayani NCY, Blank Collectibles, Ceragem, F.U.N.K of Kean University, Global Cargo Movers LLC, Gretz Jewelry New York; Gundam Planet, Inabel Shop LLC, Jollibee, Kids Philippines, Mobility Home Care, Parols of America, New Jersey Fil-Am Chamber of Commerce, Philippine Nursing Association of America (PNAA), Pocket Kings BK, Fil-Am Press Club of New York, Salve’s Filipiniana and Barong, Snaptrends Photo Booth/Narra Collectibe, The Filipino School of NYNJ and UNIFFIED.
Donors consisted of Loida Lewis, chair of the Reginald F. Lewis Foundation; Dr. Emlio Quines and Dr. Angie Cruz; and Eric Bustamante, first vice president and general manager of Philippine National Bank in New York.
A heartfelt close
As the event drew to a close, hosts Gino Cabigao and Danica Alba thanked sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees, ensuring that the sense of Filipino community resonated deeply. “We hope today’s celebration brought you the warmth of Filipino Christmas traditions and the joy of being together,” she said.
A heartfelt thank you also goes to Jollibee for providing their signature Spicy and Regular Chickenjoy and their delicious Peach Mango Pies to the Pasko in America team. Their support and generosity fueled the energy behind the scenes and contributed to the day’s success.
With a nod to upcoming events, People’s Ball on August 10, 2025, and the grand Fiesta in America two-day business and cultural expo on August 16 and 17, 2025, she invited everyone to continue the journey of cultural discovery.
For more information about Philippine Fiesta USA, Inc and its 3 annual events, including the next Fiesta in America, visit philippinefiestausa.com, contact 212.682.6610 or email info@fiestainamerica.com.
