MITCHAM CARNIVAL PARADE

By Ronald Dalida

The MFBA made a historic moment by taking part in the annual Mitcham Carnival Parade from Figges Marsh to Three King’s Piece on 13th June 2009. The MFBA a.k.a. Mitcham Pinoy kicked off six months ago, and this is the very first of the organisation’s participation in public events. Merton Council headed by honourable Councillor Nick Draper, Mayor of Merton initiated the festival, which consists of congregation, feast, entertainment, foods, drinks and funfares.

The Mitcham Pinoy is a newly established organization for Filipinos residing in Mitcham, Surrey. Their vision is to promote unity of the Filipino community and to preserve the culture and tradition of the Philippines whilst remaining to adopt the British way of life.

The Mitcham Pinoy is among the townspeople to represent the various characters in the parade. The highlight of group is the beautiful float with an arch of bunch of flowers, balloons, UK and Philippine mini-flags, and of course we have our very own Mr & Mrs Mitcham Pinoy (Amando & Carina Jualo). During the parade, in front of the float are the members together with the special participation of the Doce Pares Martial Arts members. We are very proud to have a member like Mrs Lou Pearce for her effort in providing and decorating for us an attractive floats that made our participation livelier.

Mitcham Pinoy also invited Doce Pares, the Filipino martial art of Eskrima, headed by Instructor, Master Ermar “Alex” Alexander, 5th Degree 3 times world champion and 2006 British Knife Fighting Champion. A special thank to Alex and company for their support and participation. If you are interested in martial art and would like further information, please visit www.dgdocepares.co.uk.

As part of our fund raising, the Mitcham Pinoy prepared a gazebo food stall that sells famous and well-known delicious pansit canton, pork and chicken barbecues, spring rolls and cold drinks and the crowds loved it and patronised our food for its authentic oriental taste. It was a success as we raised substantial amount.

In the end of the day, the Honourable Mayor of Merton awarded a certificate of participation to Mrs Andrea Colquhoun, Mitcham Pinoy Secretary, who initiated our participation.

Thanks to members as well as non-members and guests who participated in the carnival and gave there full support throughout the event. If you would like to know more about Mitcham Pinoy and if you have any comments you would like to make, please send us an email: info@mitchampinoy.com

Mabuhay ang Mitcham Pinoy! Mabuhay ang Pilipino!