The 35th annual Philippine Independence Day parade in New York City is set for Sunday, June 1. Photos from sofroniovasquez, bini_ph/Instagram and Martin Nievera/Facebook
NEW YORK — The 127th Philippine Independence Day parade on June 1 will be one of the most star-studded celebrations of Filipino pride, heritage and musical excellence in New York City. The event returns to Manhattan, featuring a vibrant showcase of Filipino culture.
Organized by the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc., the 35th annual parade will span Madison Avenue and culminate in a street fair at Madison Square Park.
Headliners include Sofronio Vasquez, the first Filipino and Asian to win “The Voice” and “Concert King” Martin Nievera, a beloved icon with decades of OPM hits, along with P-pop girl group BINI, known for chart-topping songs and empowering performances.
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BINI | Photo from bini_ph/instagram
Vasquez expressed excitement about participating in the Philippine Independence Day parade for the first time. Reflecting on his journey, he told Inquirer.net USA, “I remember watching the parade when I first moved to America, wishing I could be part of it and represent my music. This event is special because it celebrates our freedom and Filipino pride here in New York, where dreams are made. I can’t wait to see Filipinos come together on June 1, enjoy Filipino street foods and share my gratitude for (the community’s) support.”
Sofronio Vasquez | Photo from sofroniovasquez/instagram
Nievera said he was eager to perform alongside Vasquez and BINI.
“I am so looking forward to sharing the stage with today’s singing sensations Sofronio Vasquez and the talented BINI, as we celebrate the 127th Independence Day,” Nievera told Inquirer.net USA.
Martin Nievera | Photo from Facebook/Martin Nievera
“I can’t wait to serenade the East Coast with the songs I’ve recorded through the years. It’s been too long since I last sang for New York City. Let’s do this! See you all on Sunday, June 1!”
Returning for a second year, U.K. “X Factor” sensation 4th Impact will energize the crowd with their powerful vocals. Also performing is Banda El Gobernador, a well-known Filipino marching band from Bacoor, Philippines, recognized for lively brass and percussion.
4th Impact | Photo from 4thimpactmusic/instagram
Banda El Gobernador | Photo from pidciofficial/instagram
The festivities will highlight Filipino athletic excellence with a special appearance by the Alas Pilipinas men’s volleyball team, preparing for its debut at the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
Alas Pilipinas men’s volleyball team | Photo from pidciofficial/instagram
The team is currently in New York for a training camp, underscoring Filipino athletes’ rising prominence on the global stage.
Miss New York USA 2024 Marizza Delgado – the second Filipina American to hold the title – will represent Filipino resilience and versatility. Delgado is a data scientist and an advocate for women in STEM.
Miss New York USA 2024 Marizza Delgado | Photo from marizzadelgado/instagram
The parade will be led by grand marshals Dr. Angie Cruz-Quines and Dr. Emilio Quines, with honorary marshals including Bacoor Mayor Strike Revilla. Community leaders and officials from the Philippines and the tri-state area will also attend, reflecting the event’s significance.
Josie Jampayas, wife of Ismael Jampayas and one of this year’s honorary grand marshals, told Inquirer.net USA she was honored to serve in the role.
“I’m grateful for this recognition and hope to promote our culture and community pride,” she said. “Together, let’s continue to celebrate our heritage and Filipino spirit.”
PIDCI president Arman David and the 2025 board of directors will participate, along with Philippine Consul General Senen Mangalile and New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga, the only Filipino elected official in the state.
PIDCI president Arman David and his wife, Joyce | Photo from Arman David/Facebook
David expressed his deep pride and enthusiasm as PIDCI approaches a historic milestone.
“This year’s Philippine Independence celebration in New York is especially meaningful as it marks our 35th anniversary of hosting and organizing this beloved parade,” he told Inquirer.net USA.
“Given that it’s a milestone year, we have put in considerable effort to ensure it’s a grand celebration for all Filipinos in attendance.”
Having led the organization for years and with his term ending this year, David emphasized the event’s significance in fostering Filipino unity and pride. “We aim to elevate the Filipino presence and instill a sense of pride in everyone as Pinoys on that special day!”
He also expressed his gratitude to everyone who made the event possible. “Truly, we have something for everyone on that day! A special thanks to my entire PIDCI board of officers, our grand marshals, and our sponsors. We are especially grateful to our platinum sponsors like ABS-CBN Global, MYX, TFC, and Philippine Airlines, along with all our other supporters. Your support helps us make this year’s celebration even more memorable.”
The street fair at Madison Square Park will feature Filipino cuisine, native products and cultural exhibits, offering a taste of home for Filipino Americans and visitors alike.
Under the theme “Embrace and Preserve our Culture to Unite and Empower the Future,” this year’s celebration seeks to foster unity, heritage and community spirit across the tri-state region.
The festivities are expected to attract more than 100,000 attendees from across the tri-state area, making it one of the largest Filipino celebrations outside the Philippines.
