Staten Island’s Best Dressed: Philippine American Group’s Christmas luncheon at the Hilton Garden Inn

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Featured in this week’s Staten Island’ Best Dressed are scenes from the annual Christmas party of Staten Island Philippine-American Group, held on Dec. 2. The festivities unfolded at the Staten Island Hilton Garden Inn, Bloomfield, where close to 100 people enjoyed a sit-down, four-course lunch, raffles and dancing. The youngsters in attendance, in between playing Christmas games, even delighted in a surprise visit from Santa Claus.

Special guests at the SIPAG luncheon were Rev. Rhey Garcia, pastor of Sacred Heart Church, Rev. Frank Lanzaderas of Blessed Sacrament Church, and some of the founding members of SIPAG: Dr. Paul Albano, Jess Legaspi, Lydia Miranda, Ophelia Albano, Joe Parcero, Divina Gaerlan, Ohrley Gaerlan, James Magalong, Naomi Albano, Norma Santos, John Russo, Marilyn Paderon and Erlinda Paraiso.

Created in 1986, SIPAG is a community based, non-profit organization structured to create programs which support Philippine-American communities in the tri-state area.

SIPAG promotes youth development through programs, events and sports, as well as develop activities for senior citizens, encourage religious activities and sponsor cultural programs which promote understanding among the many ethnic groups in the area. Above all, SIPAG strives to promote understanding and stimulate public interest in Philippine culture.

Scroll for glimpses into the event and send your photos for future installments of this column to [email protected]. Be sure to include clear photos with details of the event and names of everyone in the photos.