Basaynon Katig-uban of USA & Canada

My fellow Basaynons,

The tradition of celebrating fiestas is one unwritten page of our history. But it is the most powerful force that binds us together as Basaynons and to a greater extent as Filipinos. In the United States, this identifies us distinct and unique from its multi-ethnic and multi-racial mix. We should be proud of it. We should continue to practice it and make sure the next generation of Basaynons receive it as it was received by us from our ancestors.

We are celebrating this year, in Basey, the 413th anniversary of the establishment of Basey as a parish and as a Christian community. This tradition has not only religious underpinnings - our yearly demonstration of gratitude to our patron saint, Saint Michael the Archangel for all the good things bestowed upon us. It has proven through the years that this one special day brings all Basaynons together to renew our bonds, share our pride and cherish our collective achievements as a people.

In the United States, we are organized as the Basaynon Katig-uban USA and Canada. In our short span of existence, we have undertaken many projects for the betterment of our people back home. We should take pride in it and continue to do so. We are not exempt from our misgivings and mistrust of our leaders. So be it. Short of miraculous, good things always prevail.

Maupay nga patron ha aton ngatanan! Happy Fiesta!

Wilmo C. Orejola
PRESIDENT
BASAYNON KATIG-UBAN USA-CANADA

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