By Lillian Lagapa Ulgaran
Special to the Herald
The Oahu Council of Filipino Catholic Clubs’ annual Christmas banquet at the Pagoda Beach Hotel, Dec. 26, was an evening of food, fun, music and awards.
The mistress of ceremonies, Lydia Daquioag of St. Michael FCC, assured everyone of a “fun filled” night. President Iluminada Directo thanked all 14 Oahu parish units for their cooperation. Associate spiritual director Maryknoll Sister Rosalinda Barrozo and Josephine Pablo of St. Elizabeth gave the invocation. Special guests were introduced. Executive secretary Estrella Estillore acknowledged this year’s officers and administrative board.
The band “Twilight Serenaders” accompanied the participating units’ hula girls and Filipino group dancers who permeated the dance hall in colorful swaying attires. A lively Hawaiian-style “12 Days of Christmas” compelled all 35 tables to participate. In a sight that resembled a sea of waves, each group stood and sang what “Tutu gave to me.”
A nostalgic rendition of “The Way We Were” showcased the Treasures of St. Elizabeth, a group of seniors 70 and older who give tireless support to Filipino Catholic action, portraying their work during their younger years. Oahu council spiritual director Father Larry Fisher asked all to pray that a bishop be chosen soon for Hawaii.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2004 outstanding members from each parish unit. They were Lily Lambinicio (Our Lady of Perpetual Help), Terie Toledo (St. Theresa Co-Cathedral), Iluminada Directo (St. Anthony, Kalihi), Lillian Ulgaran (St. Elizabeth), Jose Uson (St. John Apostle and Evangelist), Isabelo Palalay (St. Michael), Leonora Ramos (St. Jude), Trinidad Painte (St. Roch), Rose Bolos (St. Joseph), Nena Empleo (St. John the Baptist), Justina Bivit (Sacred Heart, Waianae), and Jovita Ungos (Our Lady of Sorrows). All received a certificate, a lei and a prize.
The surprise “Nativity Scene contest” drove everyone into a riotous frenzy on the dance floor as they used napkins, skirts and tablecloths to portray baby Jesus, the wise men and shepherds. St. Elizabeth took first prize with Flaviano Leomo as Jesus, Amy Alejo as Mary and Tony Alegaran as St. Joseph. St. Anthony won second prize and St. John, Mililani, third.
The social and program committee headed by Juanita Colon, Rose Oasay, Belina Tomontong, Lydia Daquioag, Wen Stafford and Lillian Ulgaran expressed gratitude to all who attended the get-together. Everyone headed home with sugarplums dancing in their heads after the wondrous night.