(Photo by Alliah Martha Agsalda)
Two students took the mic as guest speakers: Maricar Juntura, representing Katipunan Club, and Sean Arken Ancheta, representing Timpuyog Organization. Maricar pointed out, "Being able to be a guest speaker for Pinoy night for the second time was truly an honor. Although it may seem small, it truly shows how much the Tagalog or Filipino Program impacts its students with reading, writing, and speaking in Tagalog. Before taking Tagalog/Filipino classes, I was never confident enough to speak Tagalog, especially in crowds; however, being a guest speaker at Pinoy Night was a great opportunity to showcase my growth in the language. How I speak shows the impact of the Philippine Language and Culture Program and how both concentrations (Filipino and Ilokano) affect students. So, fellow students, please consider a major or minor in Philippine Language and Culture. I want to say, thank you for this opportunity and special shoutout to my family and partner for always believing in me and everything that I do!"
Sean shared, "I am honored to be selected as one of the emcees and represent the people of the Philippines in this state. The game was fun, and it's a great way to celebrate all Filipinos who are here, especially those younger people who are descendants of ancestors who came here more than a century ago and who sacrificed a lot so we could have a share of a better life compared to the life many people back home have. The people and organizers of this event were accommodating, making my time as emcee easy. I do want to shout out to my co-emcee for doing it with me. And to Justine Afaga for being a great sport, and Allian Martha Agsalda for pictorial memories."