Paskuhan sa Rizal Center 2024: A Grand Celebration of Filipino Culture and Community Spirit

by Ginger Leopoldo

Photo Credit: Ray Rivera

Chicago, IL – The Rizal Center came alive this December with two unforgettable celebrations, spreading the joy of Christmas and uniting the Filipino community in Chicago. The 2nd Annual Paskuhan sa Rizal Center, held on December 7th, and the Christmas Day Festivities on December 25th, highlighted the warmth, generosity, and rich cultural traditions of Filipinos.

December 7: A Full-Day Celebration of Filipino Traditions

A palpable sense of excitement marked the Paskuhan event as families and friends gathered to honor the spirit of Christmas. From the twinkling lights of the parols to the harmonious singing of choirs, every moment reflected the bayanihan spirit of the Filipino community.

Mae Lant, Programming Chair, shared her thoughts on the event: “This year’s Paskuhan embodies the essence of Filipino Christmas – the warmth of community, the joy of giving, and the power of working together. From the twinkling parols to the harmony of voices, every element represents countless hands working as one.”

Parol Contest Winners

The day began with the much-anticipated Parol Parade & Contest, showcasing the creativity and artistry of the community. Winners were celebrated for their stunning craftsmanship:

  • 🎇 1st Prize Winner: Robert Chavez (center)
  • 🎇2nd Prize Winner: Erlinda Morales (right of Robert)
  • 🎇 3rd Prize Winner: Gloria Key (left of Robert)

Emil Nicolasin (right of Erlinda), one of the judges and singer of the national anthems, reflected on the significance of the parol-making tradition: “The parol symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem that guided the shepherds and wise men to the Holy Family. It’s heartwarming to see this tradition thriving here in Chicago, bringing light and hope to our community.” Alpha Nicolasin (left of Gloria) was the wonderful emcee of the event.

Following the dazzling display of parols, the afternoon continued with another highlight—the Group Singing Contest, which showcased the community’s musical talents. The winners were:

  • 1st Place: $500 -Foline Roos and the KTM Carolers captivated the audience with their heartfelt original composition of “Sinasalubong ang Pasko.”
  • 2nd Place: – $300 prize- Chicago Nightingales, a group of dedicated nurses who joined the contest to raise funds for their medical mission in the Philippines, donated half of their $300 prize back to the Rizal Center, showcasing their bayanihan spirit.
  • 3rd Place: Children of St. Joseph from Mary Undoer of Knots Parish – $200 prize

Special Performances and Guests

The world-renowned Loboc Children’s Choir graced the event with their captivating performance, leaving the audience in awe. Their appearance was made even more special when attendees raised $600 to support the choir’s ongoing tour. Angela Mascarenas, Fund Development Officer, highlighted the significance of the event: “Through events like Paskuhan, we’re not just organizing a celebration – we’re building bridges between generations and across oceans. The presence of the Loboc Children’s Choir alongside our local talents shows how our culture thrives when we nurture both our roots and new growth.”

Christmas Tree Lighting

46th Ward Alderperson Angela Clay added to the festive atmosphere by lighting the Christmas tree, symbolizing hope and joy for the holiday season. Chairman Jerry Clarito remarked, “Having Alderperson Angela Clay at our event reinforces our commitment to working together for a brighter future.”

Excitement Peaks with the Raffle Draw

One of the most anticipated moments of the evening was the raffle draw. With over 400 tickets sold, the lucky winner of the Jetstream round-trip certificate was Carmelita Alonzo of Chicago. The crowd erupted in cheers as 46th Ward Alderperson Angela Clay announced the winning ticket, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Voices of the Community

The Paskuhan was not just an event; it was a platform for voices from the community. Ms. Tina shared her joy: “I’m so happy that I attended this Paskuhan. I missed last year’s Paskuhan as I was unaware that there was something like this in the community. I brought my family, however, I left early but my daughter and my son-in-law stayed until the end of the event.” Her feedback echoed the sentiments of many who appreciated the event’s organization, family-friendly atmosphere, and cultural representation.

Chairman Jerry Clarito also shared his reflections on the success of Paskuhan: “This event is a testament to the bayanihan spirit that defines us as Filipinos. It’s not just about celebrating Christmas; it’s about strengthening our community, preserving our culture, and building a legacy of unity and generosity. The turnout and support we received show how much our community values these traditions.”

As the excitement of Paskuhan lingered, the Rizal Center turned its focus to another cherished tradition—the Christmas Day Festivities, which brought warmth and joy to those celebrating far from home or seeking to celebrate with the community.

Photos by: Ray Rivera


December 25: Christmas Day Festivities

The Rizal Center once again opened its doors on Christmas Day, creating a warm and welcoming space for those who might otherwise spend the holiday alone. The day was filled with joy, laughter, and the spirit of giving:

  • community potluck featuring traditional Filipino dishes brought families together to share a hearty meal.
  • All attendees were called upon to be carolers filling the air with festive music, singing timeless Filipino and English Christmas songs accompanied by live piano courtesy of Dra. Cleofe Casambre.
  • White Elephant Gift exchange and Holiday BINGO were also enjoyed by all.

Attendees expressed their gratitude for the Rizal Center’s efforts to create a sense of belonging during the holiday season. One participant shared, “It’s heartwarming to have a place to celebrate Christmas with others, especially for those of us who are far from our families in the Philippines or even here in the Chicagoland area. The Rizal Center truly feels like home.”


Acknowledgments and Gratitude

The Rizal Center extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this year’s Paskuhan and Christmas Day celebrations. Special thanks go to the following individuals and groups for their dedication and hard work:

  • The entire members of FACGC’s Board of Directors:
    • Jerry Clarito (Chairman)
    • Bobby Luna (Facilities Circle Lead)
    • Cora Sopena (Treasurer)
    • Sally Richmond (Secretary & Volunteer and Outreach Circle Lead)
    • Mae Lant (Programs Circle Lead)
    • Malou Tabo (Fundraising Circle Chair)
    • Willi R. Buhay (Board Member)
    • Carmen Estacio (Board Member)
  • Angela Mascarenas: Fund Development Officer
  • Ginger Leopoldo: Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator
  • CIRCA Pintig Crew & Volunteers
  • Parol Contest Judges: Aireen Arellano, Abigail Linatoc Mendoza, Marissa Domantay, Emilio Nicolasin
  • Group Singing Contest Judges: Ester Hana, Ella Agustin, Joannah Torre-Weingart, Lutgardo Labad
  • Silent Auction Donors: Dra. Cleofe Casambre, Almira Gilles, Flor Clarito, Leopoldo Family, Panlasa, Taste of the Philippines, Boonies
  • Sponsors: PrimeCare Home Health Services, Benjamin and Fructuosa Lising, Eric and Jae Wright, Anonymous Donor, and Filipino American Grandparents Association of Chicago (FAGPAC), and Chicago Mabuhay Centennial Lions Club
  • Performers: St. Benedict’s Church dance group, Philippine American Seniors of Chicago (PASAC), Erlinda Morales and FAGPAC, Evelyn Tolledo and Cleo Casambre, M.D.

Each played a vital role in organizing and executing the events, ensuring their resounding success. Alpha Nicolasin, the event’s emcee, expressed, “Congratulations not just to the winners but to everyone at the Rizal Center, especially the volunteers who tirelessly and lovingly share their time, effort, and resources throughout the year. It was an absolute pleasure working with you all. Salamat po for having us—we had so much fun! Maligayang Pasko po!

A Home Away from Home

The Rizal Center continues to be a cherished “home away from home” for the Filipino community in Chicago, fostering connection, belonging, and cultural pride. As we reflect on the success of this year’s celebrations, we invite everyone to join us in upcoming events and we look forward to continuing the tradition of bringing people together and celebrating the rich tapestry of Filipino culture. To receive regular updates and stay connected with our events, please subscribe to our Bayanihan Newsletter at https://bit.ly/4iHu4Nt.

Tuloy po kayo! (You are always welcome!)


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