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BNAA Convention capped with a gala dinner on July 18, 2009 in New Jersey

7/20/2009 | Posted by Anonymous | Edit Post

After a hectic day of deliberations by the Bicol National Association of America (BNAA) in a convention last Saturday, a solemn mass of thanksgiving, unity, and hope was celebrated by Msgr. Jeremias Rebanal and Fr. Joe Saltarin, spiritual advisers of the group of Bicolanos who bonded together to share time, talent, and treasure for the community.

“Without a doubt, the generosity and participation of BNAA members during our fundraising efforts enable us to continue to succeed in implementing the BNAA service projects,” said Rudy Nasol, BNAA president (2007-2009) His words may well summarize the mission of the organization which gathered in New Jersey and New York for its 29th annual convention in July 17-19, 2009.

Headed by community leaders Angelita Pena and Erlinda Arellano who are the current nationwide BNAA and Northeast Chapter presidents respectively, the enthusiastic group of goal-directed Bicolanos and affiliates who work for the poor and underprivileged pulled a formal fun-filled evening dinner-dance at the Sheraton, Hotel in Newark, New Jersey to cap this year’s convention. The ball chair was Baby B. Baquiran.

With the support of the association, Lita and Linda brought together visitors and guests, mostly from various BNAA chapters from all over America.

Working in concert with the BNAA officers and members and the Our Lady of Penafrancia Association (OLPDA,) a fresh brand of “getting-to-know-you” and renewal of camaraderie marked the excitement of the evening.

An estimated 270 guests arrived to add a dazzling vitality to the memorable event. Formally dressed for the affair, they were met by welcoming hosts like Ben and Thelma Silerio, Boy and Dina Cabaero, Rolando and Gidget Revilleza, Chi and Tong Pilar, Peng Pena, Salvador Deauna, Ed Arellano, Narcisa Vasquez, Efren Zagada, Adela Quisumbing, Nilda Largoza, and Carmen Oliver.

Propped by ardent support from Northeast residents like Lily Villegas, Genevieve del Rosario, Ben Vasquez, Josie Anciano-Mendoza, Myrla Rueda, Mila Requejo, and Dr. Rosendito Largoza, the team gathered its full force which energized the ball to its rousing success.

Former BNAA president Roger Odiamar, Zayda Baron, and Fr. Garcia were as upbeat as the Chicago delegation that came with them. Adding spark to the occasion, Dr. Lilian Obrero-Gines expressed her liking for projects and wholesome fun when BNAA convenes in Jacksonville, Florida sometime in 2011.

Steve David, the president of the Filipino American Caucus for Empowerment and Alice de Leon looked forward to see Bicolanos visit Houston, Texas next year. They were part of the merry crowd which combined ballroom dancing with the plain joy of being together. A special guest performance by Craig and Samantha A. Campos, young dancing champions, wowed those who were present.

From California was a delegation which included Bicolano leader Rudy Nasol and his notable surgeon-friend Dr. Antonio Abiog, the pillar of BNAA's outreach medical missions in the Philippines. Travelling all the way to be with other guests, from Michigan were Delia Hidalgo-Rayos and Aida and Gil Manly. Ely Mabeza, a former Naga City resident, came to meet with his relatives and friends.

Ludy Baldoza-Cabanas, an amiable BNAA past president, arrived from Washington State. And from Virginia was Milette Maleniza who was accompanied by devoted hubby Joey Salonga.

Cindy and Joe Dacanay, Saulo Gaspe, Art Artuz, Joceline Losa-Masauding, Nancy Samson, Fred Ramin, and Delia Evangelista of South Carolina Bicol Association were dreamful to meet their new pals in future meetings.

There was a sizeable number of Bicolanos from out of town who attended the ball--- In fact, too many to be mentioned by name. For reasons, not completely known, there were also those who weren’t present---- and surely they were sorely missed.

At the conclusion when the crack of dawn rushed in to give way for the next day's sunrise, some attendees proceeded quietly to the “hospitality room” in the 12th floor of the venue building. In hushed voices, they were up for an extended fellowship and fun. The small crowd with Lita Pena, Msgr. Rebanal and Fr. Saltarin stayed longer to share a familiar Bicol soul-food----a native fare of hot steamy “arroz caldo” that made the delegates remember the Bikol of home. (Photo Credit: AFM) =0=

RELATED BLOG: Bikol National Association of America Convention 2009 Posted by andygimpaya at 9/26/2008

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Labels: 2009, Bicolandia Association, Bicolanos, BNAA, Convention 2009, New Jersey, OLPDA, reunion, Totie Mesia

Bicolandia Association of Eastern Seaboard Fundraiser on May 3, 2009

4/17/2009 | Posted by Anonymous | Edit Post

The Bicolandia Association of Eastern Seaboard, Inc. and its incoming illustrious national president Angelita de Leon-Pena extend their invitation to all Bicolanos and Fil-Ams in this year's fun trip to Atlantic City, New Jersey on Sunday, May 3, 2009.

The bus will be waiting at 24 Culver Avenue, Jersey City between 8-8:30 AM and will depart at 8:30 AM sharp for Atlantic City.

Be on time! Since available seats are limited, make reservations ASAP by calling the following contact persons: Lita Peña @ 201-232-1742; Linda Arellano @201-240-0872 and Gidget Revilleza @201-983-1335.

The event is in preparatiom for this year's grand Bicol National Association of America (BNAA) all-state convention slated on July 17-19, 2009 to be held in Sheraton Newark Hotel, New Jersey. Proceeds of the fundraiser will be donated to the organization's charities.(Photo Credit: LDP; CharlesW1)) =0=

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Labels: Angelita de Leon Peña, Atlantic City, Bicolandia Association, BNAA, entertainment, Erlinda Requejo Arellano, Fil-Ams, fundraiser, Gidget Revilleza, New Jersey, organization, travel

Erlinda Requejo-Arellano: outstanding Bicolana community leader of New Jersey

1/19/2009 | Posted by Anonymous | Edit Post

As the Bicol National Association of America (BNAA) gears for its July national convention in New York City this year, I can’t help but pay tribute to Erlinda Requejo-Arellano (Linda,) president of the Bicolandia Association Inc. of the Eastern Seaboard USA. She is at the helm of the preparations for the grand event which will draw Bicolanos and friends in the tri-state area.

I believe Linda is most capable in doing the job. She is a well-known community leader with outstanding accomplishments to her credit. Having been the founding president of the Filipino American Political Action Coalition of New Jersey, Inc. (FAPAC-NJ), she serves as the organizer and founding President of the Filipino American Political Action Group of Essex County and Vice President (Eastern Region) of the Bikol National Association of America.

She is the auditor of the Philippine American Communities Executive Council and the vice president of the Filipino Association of Northern New Jersey, Inc. (FANNJI). An adviser and three-time past overall chairperson of the Philippine Day Organizing Council (PDOC,) she is a mover in the Women’s Initiatives of Nutley headed by the mayor Joan Cocchiola.

Linda assumed headship and remains to be an engaging adviser of the Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association, Inc. (OLPDA,) a religious organization which promotes the devotion to the patroness of the Bicol Region. A strong-willed daughter of a war veteran-hero, she took the position of founding president of the Sons, Daughters and Orphans of Philippine American Veterans, Inc.

Among Linda’s other numerous community involvements was her longtime presidency in the Filipino American Voters’ League, Inc. She admirably served as a mentor in the Juvenile Urban Mentoring Program of Passaic Youth, treasurer of 2002 Multicultural Committee of Passaic, member of the 1999 Facilities Advisory Board and Chairman of the 1998 Quality of Life Program, both of the Passaic Board of Education.

From 1995 through 1998, Linda prominently sat on the board of the United Passaic Organization (a CAP agency) as an able treasurer, chairman of the finance committee, and member of the education and fundraising Committees. Professionally, Linda is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants.

Born with twin sister Mila, Linda hails from Canaman, Camarines Sur, Bicol Region, Philippines where the Requejo family has humbly served the community for over 100 years, majority of the years were under the mayoralty of her grandfather and father Damaso who served the most. Her brother Emmanuel is currently the mayor.

A consistent honor student at the Colegio (now Universidad) de Sta. Isabel, Naga City, spanning her elementary and high school years, Linda was one of the Three Most Outstanding High School Students. She was bestowed leadership and academic excellence recognition from among over 5,000students in the city.

After high school, she won an American Field Service scholarship and spent a year in Kenmore (Buffalo) New York. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila with a Bachelors of Science degree in Commerce major in Accounting. Soon after passing the Philippine accountancy exams, she joined Sycip, Gorres and Velayo, CPA’s and LM Power Engineering until she immigrated to the United States.

She worked for Franwall Optical Co. while taking graduate credits at the State University of NY in Buffalo. She moved for a better career offer with an accounting firm in Clifton, NJ where she earned her New Jersey license as a certified public accountant (CPA.) She was senior accountant and office manager of the firm for 17 years. Presently, Linda is the comptroller of the Passaic Board of Education, a job of trust which oversees a budget of over $200 million.

Linda was recently feted with a leadership award for political advocacy by the Pan American Concerned Citizens Action League, Inc. (PACCAL). Her leadership in political empowerment has also earned her the Go an Extra Mile (GEM) recognition given by the Filipino Asian Bulletin community and the St. Vincent de Paul Public Service Award, for being among the first awardees of the Universidad de Sta. Isabel as an outstanding alumna.

Other sterling distinctions she has had the pleasure of receiving are the United States Special Congressional Recognition for Leadership and Community Service, the New Jersey Assembly Award for outstanding community leadership, the Philippine Day Organizing Council Recognition Award for outstanding leadership, the Philippine Day Organizing Council Bayanihan (Communal Spirit) Award, the Passaic Board of Education Recognition Award as chairperson of the Quality of Life Program, and awards from the Philippine American Friendship Committee, the Philippine Independence Celebration Committee, the Performing Arts of the Philippines, Inc., the Philippine American Communities Council, Inc., the Philippine American Veterans Organization, Inc. and the Bicolandia Association, Inc.

Above all these, what Linda brags to be an “award” that’s unparalleled, unsurpassed and only hers to claim is being mother of her two most wonderful children, Gerard, 29and Marie, 28. =0=

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Labels: Bicolandia Association, BNAA, Colegio de Sta Isabel, community, Erlinda Requejo Arellano, leadership, Naga City, New Jersey, OLPDA, outstanding, Totie Mesia

Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association (OLPDA) election on October 25, 2008

10/18/2008 | Posted by Anonymous | Edit Post

Virginia C. Jacobson, chairwoman of the Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association announces the organization’s election of officers slated on October 25, 2008. She invites fellow devotees to attend and participate in the selection of leaders of the organization.

OUR LADY OF PENAFRANCIA DEVOTEES ASSOCIATION
DATE: OCTOBER 25, 2008 (Saturday)
TIME: 2:00 - 5:00 PM
PLACE: Our Lady of Victory Rectory (OLVR) BASEMENT
2217 J. F. KENNEDY BLVD.
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07304
Contact: Virginia C. Jacobson, OLPDA chairwoman
Tel. 732-742-4143

AGENDA

1. OPENING PRAYER
2. SECRETARY'S REPORT
3. TREASURER'S REPORT
4. ELECTION OF NEW OLPDA OFFICERS
5. OTHER BUSINESS

Please note: Food and Drinks will be provided, please do not bring any.

Labels: Bicolandia Association, Bicolanos, New Jersey, officer election, OLPDA, Totie Mesia, Virginia Jacobson

Bikol National Association of America Convention 2009

9/26/2008 | Posted by andygimpaya | Edit Post

The 26th Anniversary of the Bikol National Association of America (BNAA) will be held in New York and New Jersey on July 17, 18 and 19., 2009

Delegates will have the chance to see the United States' most famous landmark---the Statue of Liberty; enjoy the sights and sounds of the Big Apple---dazzling views of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, United Nations Building, Empire State Building, St, Patrick's Cathedral, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, Central Park then shop at Macy's---the World's Largest Store; or head south and try their luck in one of those world-class hotel/casinos of Atlantic City and take a leisurely stroll along its famous boardwalk for that cool and refreshing Atlantic Ocean breeze.

Contacts:
Convention Host
Bicolandia Association, Inc. of the Eastern Seaboard, USA
Erlinda Requejo Arellano, President
973-662-1265 e-mail: erlinda123@msn.com

Angelita de Leon Peña
BNAA President-Elect 2009
201-232-1742
e-mail: litapeng2@yahoo.com

Labels: Angelita de Leon Peña, Bicolandia Association, Bikol National Association of America, BNAA, Convention 2009, Erlinda Requejo Arellano, Inc. of the Eastern Seaboard, USA

Peñafrancia Fiesta 2008 in New Jersey

8/13/2008 | Posted by Anonymous | Edit Post

With dolled-up faces, young pretty girls in bright-red costumes walk down the streets from their haunts like the ethereal deities visiting Naga City. In one picture, that’s how exciting Penafrancia Fiesta must be. (Photo Credit: JerryLimLee)

Memorable reunions at home, prayers in churches, colorful street parades and food festivals around the city are what the celebration is all about. From Aparri to Jolo, visitors are expected to come in the southern peninsula of Luzon island. They are part of the plethora of sights and sounds that Bicolanos will enjoy during the week-long Penafrancia fiesta.

Honoring the historic ebony Marian icon of Nuestra Senora de Penafrancia, aptly referred to as Ina, the Virgin Mother of God, the Bicolanos worldwide have these glittery days set. The feast culminates in a spectacular river procession which brings the holy image of Ina to the Penafrancia Basilica where a thanksgiving mass is offered the next day. In far New Jersey just like in other places abroad, the officers and members of Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association (OLPDA) and the Bicolandia Association have similar activities too. Everyone is invited!

OUR LADY OF PEÑAFRANCIA DEVOTEES ASSOCIATION (Tri-state), INC. with the cooperation of BICOLANDIA ASSOCIATION OF THE EASTERN SEABOARD invites you to come and celebrate its 19th ANNUAL PEÑAFRANCIA FESTIVITIES on SEPTEMBER 12 to 20, 2008

TRASLACION from Our Lady of Victories Lower Church to Our Lady of Victories Upper Church September 12, 2008 (Friday) – 5:30 PM

NIGHTLY NOVENA MASS AT 7:00 PM September 12 - 19, 2008
EXCEPT ON Sept. 14 (Sunday) – 5:30PM at Our Lady of Victories Upper Church
2217 J.F. Kennedy Blvd. corner Ege Avenue, Jersey City, NJ 07304 Rectory tel.: 201-433-4152

GRAND FIESTA CELEBRATION - 1:00 PM September 20, 2008 (Saturday)
(Theme: “Renewing our Faith through Ina”) assembly at the CRRNJ Train Terminal Bldg., Liberty State Park, 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305

FLUVIAL PROCESSION - 1:00 PM Back of CRRNJ Train Terminal Bldg., Liberty State Park.

FOLLOWED BY CONCELEBRATED MASS inside CRRNJ Train Terminal Bldg., Liberty State Park. 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305

Directions: From NJ TURNPIKE take NJTpke EXIT-14B. After Toll, bear left to Liberty State Park. Straight ahead by-pass the circle. Turn left to Freedom Way. Turn right to Audrey Zapp Drive. Parking Lot at right side. Parking Fee - $5.00 Or ride the “Hudson-Bergen Light Rail” and get off at Liberty State Park Station which is walking distance to the CRRNJ Train Terminal at 1 Audrey Zapp Drive. Please wear Filipiniana or attire with yellow color.

Contacts:
Virgie Jacobson (732)742-4131; Josie Mendoza (973)420-9638; Efren Zagada (973)533-1909; Gidget Revilleza(201)983-1335; Liliana Lacap 201)763-7822; Dina/Boy Cabaero (201)794-0999; Thelma Silerio (908)629-1426; Chi/Tong Pilar(973)893-0624; Linda Arellano(201)240-0872; Fe/Marfo Manibay (908)355-8682; Rudy Alcantara(201)521-1165; Lita/Peng Peña (201)432-2144; Lily Cantuba(201)792-1885; Lily Villegas 609)771-0940; Francia Banzuela(201)432-9893.=0=

Labels: bicol, Bicolandia Association, Bicolanos, fiesta, Ina, Naga City, New Jersey, New York, OLPDA, Penafrancia, religion, Totie Mesia, Virgin of Penafrancia

The Challenge of Kaya Natin Movement: "Sabi baga ni Mayor Jesse Robredo kaya ta!"

8/03/2008 | Posted by Anonymous | Edit Post

Nothing happens...but first a dream.
---Carl Sandburg

It could be an inspiration from the glib talker, burnished campaigner Barack Obama who goes around in his US presidential bid with a catchy slogan “Change, we can.” Unrestrained in his popular vision with yet to be seen outcomes, “the pockets of hope,” he promises seem to be what we also need. His optimism makes the Americans feel good and it has finally arrived in the Philippines.

In July 30, 2008, a group of well-intentioned leaders---Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo, Pampanga Gov. Eddie Panlilio, San Isidro, Nueva Ecija Mayor Sonia Lorenzo and Isabela Gov. Grace Padaca launched a movement born from the agony of---and concern for---a country bloodied by corruption, scandals, disasters and tragedies that few of us can ignore.

Started with the help of the Ateneo de Manila University School of Government, Kaya Natin (aka Kaya Ta in Bicol) aims to unite hardworking and ethical Filipinos worldwide to promote real change, bring consciousness in good leadership and governance. Targeting the idealism of the youth, the group taps on the patriotism and sense of duty of Filipinos to effect positive change through people empowerment, transparency, and accountability.

Lita Pena, senior adviser of Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association (OLPDA) of TriState area in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut and leader of the Bicolandia Association, sends her encouragement and support for Kaya Natin via email on August 2, 2008.

She does a good job of informing those who want genuine and lasting change in our political landscape. Perhaps, to give optimism a boost, the Filipino-American civic leader shares this dazzling idea that brings the images of the great “bayanihan” back to life. We return to our ancestral Filipino tradition of industry, honesty, cooperation, accountability, self-help plus neighborly love that we all need at this time.

The movement welcomes all Filipinos who share Kaya Natin’s vision. Its objectives are as follows:

* Promote Electoral Reforms by encouraging the Filipino Youth to register, vote for the right candidates and volunteer their time to ensure clean and honest elections.
* Promote Local Autonomy and Empowerment of local government units by decentralizing the delivery of basic services such as Quality Basic Education.
* Work with the Church, other like-minded organizations and civil society groups towards the total eradication of all Illegal Activities such as Graft and Corruption in all forms, illegal gambling and illegal logging.
* Develop and encourage ethical and effective young Filipino leaders who will consider to run for public office and/or work in government. AmongEd.org (07/26/07)

You can join Kaya Natin! A Movement for Genuine Change and Ethical Leadership by sending an email to kayanatin@yahoo.com or you can reach us at (02) 426-5657.=0=

Labels: Accountability, bicol, Bicolandia Association, Change, Corruption, Corruption in Government, Filipinos, government, Jesse Robredo, Kaya Natin, Obama, OLPDA, Philippines, Totie Mesia, Youth

UP Ibalon Bicol

BNAA Convention capped with a gala dinner on July 18, 2009 in New Jersey

Bicolandia Association of Eastern Seaboard Fundraiser on May 3, 2009

Erlinda Requejo-Arellano: outstanding Bicolana community leader of New Jersey

Our Lady of Penafrancia Devotees Association (OLPDA) election on October 25, 2008

Bikol National Association of America Convention 2009

Peñafrancia Fiesta 2008 in New Jersey

The Challenge of Kaya Natin Movement: "Sabi baga ni Mayor Jesse Robredo kaya ta!"

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