Pasko sa Memphis Pasko sa Memphis
6:15 p.m. Dinner
6:30pm ChristmasCarolers - - - - - - JerieJoyRollonBroadway
Jeremy/Julia/JaedenNapoles
JulienneAlinsub
7:15 pm ScholarshipAwards
FILAMemphis,Inc.ThroughtheYears
7:40 p.m. PresidentSpeech - - - - - - RoyAlinsub
8:00 p.m.
PaskosaMemphis
PUSO
PhilippineChristmasMedley - - - - - Fr.DexterNoblefranca/JohnMadarang PASKO
SanaNgayongPasko
SantaTellMe
PNACarolers&RoroBalmores(Violin)
JingleBellsKids
PALS&Friends
Masculados
HotMommas
DianneYarbro/DanielleLee
ElizabethCatimbang/VianLabilles
PILIPINO
Pagapir-FanDance
LaJotaCavitena
A Message from the EVENT CHAIRS A Message from the EVENT CHAIRS
ROCHELLE ENCARNACION-MORRIS & VAL JAVIER
ROCHELLE ENCARNACION-MORRIS & VAL JAVIER
A Message
from the President A Message from the President
RoyA.Alinsub RoyA.Alinsub President , PT, DPT, CWS
As we celebrate this year’s Pasko sa Memphis, I am filled with gratitude for what we have accomplished together. Nearly a year into our administration, we have strengthened our programs, deepened community relationships, and continued the work built on a strong foundation by the leaders who came before us Their vision, sacrifice, and enduring commitment remain the backbone of FILAMemphis, guiding and sustaining us to this day.
For almost five decades, FILAMemphis, Inc. has been anchored by four pillars: Humanitarian Services, Youth Development, Cultural Preservation, and Cross-Cultural Connections.
• Through Humanitarian Services, we welcomed newly arrived Filipinos, supported kababayans in hardship, and partnered with organizations such as the US-Philippine Society during times of calamity.
• Our Youth Development efforts—from scholarships to mentorship—have empowered young FilipinoAmericans while fostering friendships across cultures
• Cultural Preservation thrived in events like the Boodle Fight, Feb-Ibig Celebration, Santacruzan, Seniors Day, Liga ng Pinoy, and our flagship Philippine Fiesta, which was recognized among Memphis’s Most Community’s Choice Top 3 Local Events this year.
• Through Cross-Cultural Connections, we stood alongside Asian-American partners in AAPI Month, Lunar New Year, Dragon Boat Festival, and the Asian Night Market, celebrating unity and diversity.
Tonight, we celebrate more than Christmas—we celebrate Puso Pasko Pilipino
Puso is the heart of our mission, reflected in every scholarship, event, and outreach made possible by volunteers, donors, and partners.
Pasko is the joy and gratitude we share, honoring the Filipino spirit of giving and togetherness.
Pilipino is our identity and pride, carried forward through every program and passed on to the next generation.
To our board members, volunteers, sponsors, performers, and community partners maraming salamat po. And to the leaders who paved the way, your legacy inspires us and makes all this possible.
As we welcome a new year, may we continue to lead with puso, celebrate the joy of Pasko, and stand proudly as Pilipino May tonight remind us of our love for community, our commitment to service, and the richness of our heritage
Maraming salamat po, and may your hearts be filled with the true spirit of Pasko.
Board of Directors Board of Directors
Happy Holidays, FILAMemphis Family!
What a joy it is to gather once again and celebrate another year of culture, puso, and community. As we wrap up 2025, I’m reminded of how lucky we are to share this vibrant Filipino-American spirit here in Memphis; where laughter is loud, food is plentiful, and everyone is treated like family.
Tonight’s celebration reflects the heart (or puso) of our community: our traditions, our stories, and that uniquely Pinoy warmth that turns ever event into a reunion or home for all. No matter how long you have been a part of FILAMemphis – whether you grew up in the organization like I did or you just started coming to events this year – you belong here.
Thank you for your support, energy, and your heart. Because of you, our organization continues to grow, uplift, and spark pride in our shared Pinoy heritage. Together, we keep the light of our community glowing brightly.
From our Board to all of you, may your holidays be filled with joy, warmth, and love.
Happy Holidays,
Michaih Ley B. Graves Michaih Ley B. Graves CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
President
Treasurer
STEPHANIE
Secretary
P & HOSPITALITY
EDITOR/WEBMA
EDUCATIONAL/SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Cielo Remorque April Rose Sissman
SOCIAL&CULTURAL
Alexis Corcoran Vernice Hunt
Michael Boongaling
VOLUNTEER
Heidi Guinocor
WAYS & MEANS
Rochelle Morris Valerie Javier Cielo Remorque
Harry Guinocor Ley Bayani Barby Bayani
AUDIO PRODUCTION Blasito “Boyet” Alvarez
Special Events Co-Chairpersons
RYAN & ALEXIS CORCORAN
Star Spangled Banner & Lupang Hinir
RAPHAEL JAMIAS & HALEY PALLERA
ALYSSA CORCORAN
FR. DEXTER NOBLEFRANCA
ERICKA LANDICHO
Christmas Carolers Christmas Carolers
JERIE JOY ROLLON JERIE ROLLON
JULIENNE ALINSUB ALINSUB
MARK ALLIDA MARK
ALLEN RIPPE
JEREMY JEREMY
JULIA
JAEDEN JAEDEN
Christmas
ME MEDLEY
Philippine Nurses Association
(PNA )
Encarnacion Baker Stephanie Uy Rhohan Balmores Mary Ann Yee
Cora Limbago Mark Uy Diana Alvarez Rochelle Beltran Joyzel Bermejo
Michelle Jamias Janice McCormack Laarnie Landicho Rhodora Marquez
Angelo Bosque Adeleen Mendizabel Allen Marquez Jay Beltran
Jingle Bells JingleBells
Londyn
Thirdy
Athena Pador Chloe Grace Bobo Sam Feliciano Isabella Ordinario Mallory Ordinario Drianna Cruz
Londyn Finley Amara Nagy Olivia McCormack Ariana Nathan Kaia Williams Nicole Smith
Thirdy Partosa Rei-Rei Balmores Rexel Buaya Ryan Nagy Gabriel Manahan Andrew Hanson
Feliciano Ordinario Ordinario Drianna Cruz
Finley Amara Nagy Olivia McCormack Ariana Nathan Kaia Williams Nicole Smith
Partosa Rei-Rei Balmores Rexel Buaya Ryan Nagy Gabriel Manahan Andrew Hanson
Christy Tecson Mary Bandealy Yvonne Lowery Chuchi King Pretty Mae Partosa Emilyn Lee
Rosalie Lechner Arcele Scott Victoria Shepard
Malyn Adams Elena Akin Yvonne Eaton Bernadette Webb
Pals & Friends
Emelie Armada Karen Garello Cielo Remorque Laarnie Landicho Michelle Rose Jamias
LiliGeronimo CamilleSanchez Danielle Lee KharisseMopal
ValerieCasco
BiancaAlvarez DemiHenthorne CarolineHanson JillianOng
(Muslim Dance)
La Jota Cavitena La Jota Cavitena
Jarah Beltran Elizabeth Catimbang Victoria Bagatcholon Keisha Lardizabal
Elizabeth Catimbang Bagatcholon Lardizabal
Gabriel Gampong Vincent Casco Joshua Ong EJ Finley
Gabriel Vincent Casco Joshua EJ Finley
Maglalatik
Maglalatik is a dance depicting a battle between religious groups over latik, using coconut shells and martial arts movements, and is part of Biñan's heritage.
Cael Sanchez Vohn Morris Avery Yarbro Francis Gler
Rexel Buaya Rei Balmores Adam Henthorne
Violeta Galleposo Rosalinda Welling Estela Bone Vernice Hunt
VioletaGalleposo RosalindaWelling EstelaBone VerniceHunt
Star Finley Zeny Dickerson Dinia Cruz Sue Austria
StarFinley Zeny Dickerson DiniaCruz SueAustria
Habanera de Jovencita
HabaneradeJovencita,orjustjovencita,isadancetypicalofawoman’sdebut Theaccompanying loveballadwaswrittenbyMaestroNitoyGonzaleswhenhewascourtingJovitaFriese,whothen choreographedthegracefulandbeautifulhabaneradancethataccompaniesit.Jovencitameans “younglady”inSpanish.
UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI (OLE MISS)
Filipino Student Association
Pejah Floyd Regina Pina Sachi Morris Jaeon Johnson Aidan Demesa
Pejah Floyd Regina Pina Sachi Morris Jaeon Johnson Aidan Demesa
BINASUAN BINASUAN
I N I K L I NG
N I K L I NG
Cassie Ecdao Margret Jamora BeaBianca Bermejo Rickaye Baronda
Amber Alfane Alyssa Guinocor Maiah Pacris Shane Ragonton Kate Agravante
Kaylee Wielgosz Sheree Jaurigue Louden Hanson Tristan Yarbro Xander Balbalosa
Ben Armada Dylan Bullen Jacob Reyes Adriel Marquez Justin Ignalig
Landon Morton Seymour Shepard Micheal Boongaling Gabe Henthorne
Jax Fontanilla Julio Mangioub Paul Gler Kyle Mopal
SPONSORS & FRIENDS SPONSORS & FRIENDS
Weexpressourdeepestgratitudetothefollowing businessesandourlongstandingfriendswhose unwaveringsupportsignifiesabeliefinthemission ofourorganization. Weencourageeveryonetoshowtheirsupportby patronizingtheproductsandservicesofferedby oursponsors.Yourbackinghelpssustainthe valuableworkwedo.Thankyouforstandingwith us.
Happy
Merry Christmas! from FRIENDS of MALYNADAMS
Joe Luchessi
Beth Farelly
Ellen Baker
Jackie Spears
Stephanie Simpson
Vicki Rush
Linda Knight
Ellen Watson Lisa & Kevin Green
Carolyn Farell
Sue Bakke
Judy Hill
Judy Felsethal
Lee Sheffield
Susan Shorter
MalipayongPasko ug BulahangBag-ongTuig!
“When man strives for honor, glory and fame,That all the world may know his name. But when he nears the end of life,And looks back over the years of strife, He finds that happiness,Depends on none of these, but love of friends. No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave. ”
Congratulations to FILAMemphis, Inc. for its unwavering community service, for preserving our heritage, and for keeping our community united. We are truly proud to be part of this wonderful family.
With love,
BenandLinda Amaba
Toourbeloveddaughter, Angelee
Youhavealwaysbeenour inspiration.Thankyoufor bringingsomuchlightandjoy intoourlives.Congratulations onfinishinghighschool!Keep soaring,andcontinuetoshine whereverlifetakesyou.
Withallourlove,
MomandDad (BillandElenaAikin)
The Filipiniana Dessert Spread was lovingly prepared by Barby Bayani, with generous contributions from our wonderful supporters.
Fabro Fabro
VERNICE RUBY RUBY Guevara Guevara
Maricris Maricris
Tino’s Delight GUINOCOR Heidi ElenaAikin ElenaAikin ALEXIS CORCORAN ALEXIS CORCORAN
GENEVIEVE GENEVIEVE GENEVIEVE Barby Bayani! Rose LECHNER remque Cielo
LEA
EMDADDYZ
FILAMemphis, Inc. Scholars
FILAMemphis, Inc. is proud to highlight the long-standing work of its Educational Program, which for more than 20 years has awarded scholarships to over 100 deserving high school students. Scholars are selected through multiple criteria, including GPA, essay submissions, and, most importantly, active participation in FILAMemphis programs and events. This process ensures that young people are recognized not only for academic excellence but also for their contributions to advancing the mission of FILAMemphis, Inc., including the preservation and sharing of the rich traditions and culture of the Philippines throughout Memphis and its neighboring communities.
Add FIsubheading
FILAMemphis, Inc. Scholars
Avajayne Ortega is a proud graduate of Central High School and an award-winning young artist. She earned a prestigious Gold Key at the 2025 MidSouth Scholastic Art Awards for her piece “August 21,” which was featured on a public billboard near the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Throughout high school, Ava garnered numerous distinctions, including seven Silver Keys, three Gold Keys, a regional Best in Show, and top honors in Pre-AP Art, Russian, Teen Arts Fest, and the BRACE Art Contest. She also completed the Contemporary Arts Memphis Fellowship, achieved a perfect score of 5 in AP 2D Visual Arts, and showcased her talent as a Soprano 1 in choir.
Ava is now pursuing a Visual Arts major at the University of Memphis, continuing a journey defined by passion, creativity, and cultural pride.
Luis Drey Ortega is currently pursuing his pre-nursing studies at the University of Memphis, preparing for a future in the healthcare field. His academic interests reflect a strong desire to serve others and contribute meaningfully to his community
Drey has been an active participant in numerous FILAMemphis events, including Pasko sa Memphis, the Philippine Fiesta, and Youth Day, among others Through these activities, he has consistently demonstrated pride in his heritage and a willingness to engage with and support his community. He also expresses his cultural identity through his artwork, using creativity as a way to celebrate and share his Filipino roots.
FILAMemphis, Inc. Scholars
Kiesha Rae Lardizabal, a Central High School alumna, made school history as the first Filipina to lead the Journalism and Yearbook class, earning the Top Journalism Award. She was consistently on the Honor List and participated in the International Club for three years
Kiesha also demonstrated quiet leadership through service, volunteering at school events and supporting faculty and staff. Within the Filipino-American community, she has been an active presence at Pasko sa Memphis, Santacruzan, Philippine Fiesta, and was crowned Binibining FILAMemphis 2024
She currently attends the University of Memphis with the HOPE Tennessee Scholarship, pursuing a degree in nursing, while continuing to explore her interest in photography
Yesha Mae Abaquita-Newton graduated from Bartlett High School with a strong record of academic excellence and involvement She was an active member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, and the Honors Academy, consistently demonstrating high achievement and commitment. Her dedication earned her multiple scholarships, including the TN Dual Enrollment Grant, the Trustee Award, and the HOPE Scholarship She also remained engaged in the FILAMemphis community, staying connected to her cultural and service-oriented roots.
Yesha is now pursuing a nursing degree at the University of Memphis, continuing her commitment to serving others and building a future grounded in purpose and compassion
FILAMemphis, Inc. Scholars
Ethan is a proud graduate of St. Benedict at Auburndale High School, completing his studies with Fine Arts Distinction and earning the Tennessee Hope Scholarship.
In high school, he demonstrated strong leadership and creativity through his involvement in SBA Theater, School Band, and as the founder of the Sisig Band. He was also active in FILAMemphis, the National Honor Society, and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.
Ethan is now attending Middle Tennessee State University’s College of Business, pursuing a degree in Marketing with support from the Presidential Scholarship. His journey continues with talent, drive, and a bright future ahead.
Matthew Kaw is a graduate of St. Benedict at Auburndale, where he excelled academically, earning Honor Roll recognition and membership in both the National Honor Society and the National English Honor Society His involvement extended beyond academics through participation in theater, football, cross country, and the Diversity and Inclusion of Human Dignity Club, shaping him into a well-rounded and engaged student
A lifelong member of FILAMemphis, Matthew has been actively involved in cultural events, volunteer initiatives, and youth activities since childhood consistently showing leadership, reliability, and pride in his heritage
He is currently attending Middle Tennessee State University with the support of the True Blue Presidential Scholarship and the TN HOPE Scholarship, pursuing his goal of becoming a forensic pathologist with aspirations to work for the FBI
FILAMemphis, Inc. Scholars
Mia Kathryn Culala Diaz is a proud 2025 graduate of Houston High School, finishing with high honors including Magna Cum Laude, District and State Distinction, and State Honors. She excelled academically while actively participating in the National Art Honors Society, Rescue Paws, and the Governor’s School for the Arts 2024.
She has also been active in the FILAMemphis community, taking part in cultural celebrations such as Pasko Sa Memphis and Santacruzan, proudly embracing her heritage.
Mia is now attending Middle Tennessee State University as part of the Honors Program, majoring in Social Work with support from the Presidential and HOPE Scholarships. Her path reflects her dedication to service and her passion for helping others.
Roari Susanne Lopez Conover, a graduate of Houston High School, completed her studies Magna Cum Laude with distinctions including District Distinction, GMSD Honors, State Honors, State Distinction, and TN TriStar Recognition. She held prominent leadership roles as Low Reed Section Leader in Marching Band, Wind Ensemble member, Varsity Archery Team Captain, and officer in the Chemistry Honor Society and Tri-M Honor Society. She also joined the St. Jude High School Research Immersion Program and performed in the 2024 All-State Band on bari-saxophone.
oari is currently attending the University of Alabama at Birmingham, majoring in Genetics and Genomic Science with a minor in Chemistry, supported by multiple academic scholarships. Her goals include pursuing medical school or a Ph.D. in medical research.
She remains connected to the community through participation in events such as Pasko sa Memphis and Santacruzan, demonstrating continued cultural engagement.
FILAMemphis, Inc. Scholars
Angelee Akin is a graduate of Houston High School and a multi-talented student with a passion for music, the arts, and community service. She has distinguished herself through her creativity, engagement, and compassion for others. She has dedicated meaningful time to working with young children at Calvary Episcopal Church, demonstrating a strong commitment to service. She also represented the Filipino-American community as this year’s Reyna Elena in the Philippine Fiesta..
Angelee is currently taking a well-deserved break before pursuing studies in beauty education, stepping into a future shaped by her skills, dedication, and community spirit. FILAMemphis recognizes her accomplishments and looks forward to her continued growth.
Xavier Balbalosa, a graduate of Bartlett High School, is now pursuing his academic path at Belmont University, where he is majoring in Biology with a Pre-Health emphasis and minoring in Chemistry. His studies reflect a clear commitment to a future in the health sciences.
Xavier has also been a highly active and dedicated member of the FILAMemphis community. Over the years, he has showcased his talent and cultural pride through various traditional dance performances and has participated in hallmark community events such as Liga ng Pinoy, Santacruzan, and Pasko sa Memphis. His involvement highlights both his enthusiasm for cultural preservation and his commitment to community engagement.
FILAMemphis, Inc.
Dr. Amin and Mary Bandealy, our esteemed King and Queen of Hearts 2025, step forward as devoted ambassadors for FILAMemphis, Inc.’s philanthropic mission most notably in championing the Educational Committee’s Scholarship Fund.
We extend our deepest appreciation to this remarkable couple for their commitment to uplifting the next generation through meaningful support of our scholars.
Together, let us strengthen this mission and continue creating lasting impact through education within our community.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CONNIE BINKOWITZ CONNIE BINKOWITZ
