The early morning of Saturday May 28, dark clouds hovered the horizon and this led to change the alternative venue for the Quezon Province Association of Manitoba’s annual Santacruzan. The Maples Community Centre became the safer place to celebrate the colorful festivity honoring San Isidro, the patron of harvest; and Virgin Mary, the patron of Mayflower Festival.
Sagalas and consorts arrived and excited to celebrate the most colorful fiesta. Food and aranyas were set up and the site of the mass was ready inside the centre. At midday, the sun came out and the officers decided to conduct the procession outside of the community centre . The weather cooperated with the festivity.
The event was headed by 2011 Hermano & Hermana Mayor Norman & Candy Padilla, Hermanito & Hermanita Mayor Don & Anna Cymbalisty. The sagalas, from Reyna Elena “Jaimarie Jesmyne” to the angels, wore the traditional costumes and consorts wore barongs. Two religious images, San Isidro and Virgin Mary, joined the procession and the officers, members and guests of QPAM rendered the song “Dios De Salve” while the procession went by. After the procession, the mass was held, and a big food buffet followed and games for the kids.
Headed by Maggie Chan Urbano,president, QPAM has another successful year. During the celebration, the nomination of 15 boards members was held. And the new set of officers for this coming year will be elected when the newly elected board members meet.
The following 15 elected board of directors include Eman Huesca, Edwin Azores, Norman Padilla, Don Cymbalisty, Cocoy Aguilar, Christy Andrade, Reybert Calubayan, Leo Blanco, Eddie Revilla, Rowena Arquero, Mandy Habito, Tex De luna, Arlyn Merene, Glenda Relis, Maggie Chan-Urbano.