FIESTA FILIPINIANA 2011

A man should hear a little music, read a little poetry, and see a fine picture every day of his life, in order that worldly cares may not obliterate the sense of the beautiful which God has implanted in the human soul. ~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe ~

"Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder."- Plato

What a lovely day in downtown San Diego, California, when we celebrated the Fiesta Filipiniana 2011! On June 18th, the yellow sunshine came out beautifully, cheering the coronation of the mayora and misses. Also a fun filled day of cultural, musical and artful events. Truly a very lovely day like a painting. As I write this blog, I am very happy to be at this memorable event. The crowned hermana mayora is my sister. I am very proud to be part of her many achievements and successes.

WELCOME! MABUHAY!

The Fiesta Filipiniana 2011 (June 18, 2011) is the Annual Commemoration of the Philippine Independence Anniversary & Birth Anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal- The "Philippnes Day" in San Diego Celebrating Arts, Culture, History, Heritage & Tradition. This event was held at the San Diego Philippine Library & Historical Heritage Museum at the Gaslamp Quarter's in downtown San Diego.

The Philippine Library & Museum Chorale Group led the singing of "We Say Mabuhay" with the accompaniment of the Samahan Rondalla prior to the release of the red, white & blue 113 balloons. The Special Guests & Muses led the release of the balloons with all the guests.

The Coronation of the Hermana Mayora 2011- Dr. Ofelia V. Dirige. The selection of an Hermana Mayora was a long and tedious one because the qualifications have to be carefully screened as the Committee wants only the best "Little Mayor" of the Fiesta Filipiniana. She's charming, intelligent, talented and community-oriented lady.

Philippine Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon and Hermana Mayor 2011- Dr. Ofelia V. Dirige with Dr. Jose Rizal bust.

Beautiful Cinderella Carriage Parade of the Fiesta Filipiniana Mayora, Fiesta Muses and Mrs. & Miss RP-SD Tourism, 2010-2011. The one hour parade started in front of the San Diego Philippine Library & Historical Heritage Museum at Gaslamp Quarter's. It was indeed a leisurely carriage ride around downtown San Diego.

First Carriage with the charming Hermana Mayora 2011- Dr. Ofelia V. Dirige w/ some members of the Dirige family.

Mr. & Mrs. Rhod Resella beaming with joyful smiles. It was a dazzling "Once-In-A-Lifetime" experience to ride & parade on a Cinderella carriage around

downtown San Diego. With the gorgeous blue skies of San Diego, it was truly a heavenly experience. Like an answer to a prayer or dream. This was the best and most beautiful part of the event for me & my husband.

Hermana Mayora 2011 Dr. Ofelia V. Dirige and sister Ebb

Dr. Ofelia V. Dirige with escort Mr. Jay Montenegro (One of the Ilang-Ilang Awardees))