More than 300 students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members gathered at the Howard Performing Arts Center on Feb. 28 for the annual Andrews Filipino International Association (AFIA) Pilipino Cultural Night (PCN), a celebration of history and heritage.
This year’s program, titled “Halo-Halo” or “mix-mix,” took inspiration from the name of a popular Filipino dessert. Reflecting the theme, AFIA presented a variety-show format featuring cultural dances, musical performances and comedic skits.
Among the evening’s highlights was the skit “Overly Friendly Customer Service,” which humorously portrayed the warmth and hospitality often associated with Filipino culture. Audience members also enjoyed the choir’s performance of “Kalesa,” named after the traditional horse-drawn carriage that remains an important symbol of Filipino heritage.
One of the most anticipated performances was Sayaw sa Bangko, a traditional folk dance requiring performers to move skillfully across benches without losing their balance. Demonstrations of Filipino Martial Arts, Tinikling and the Candle Dance further showcased student talent and culture.
“PCN is an annual event that AFIA puts on in order to celebrate the Filipino culture,” says Fares Magesa, AFIA co-sponsor and director of Student Financial Services. “By providing students, both Filipino and not, the opportunity to be involved in or attend this experience, our community is able to grow and build stronger relationships.”
