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Fiesta fun over Imus, Cavite reached fever-pitch as young Christians from across Asia officially opened Asian Youth Day 5 (AYD5).
A procession of marching bands and “Karakol” dancers accompanied AYD5 delegates as they joyfully half-walked, half-danced their way to the Cathedral of the Our Lady of the Pillar where they were warmly welcomed by Church and local officials.
Besides delegates coming from this year’s host country, the Philippines, delegations include: China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Macau, Taiwan, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Timor Leste, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Kyrjyzstan, Mongolia, Siberia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and other Asian delegations from other continents (Australia, Germany, France, the Netherlands).
In a Eucharistic celebration, His Eminence Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Archbishop of Manila, welcomed the delegates and reassured them of their place in God’s heart.
“Many of the miracles and the caresses of the Lord are for the young,” he told them. “For Jesus, the young means new life, hope, and great love.”
“Young people, you are intensely loved by God,” he furthered.
Bishop of Imus Luis Tagle’s homily centered on the special role of being young and being Asian, while Bishop Angel Lagdameo, president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, “joyfully, youthfully” declared AYD5 open.
The Mass was followed by a cultural presentation that showcased some of the Philippines’ beloved folk dances, such as Pandango sa Ilaw, Singkil, Uya-uy, Ragragsakan, as well as an upbeat contemporary dance to the music “Let the Joy Rise.”
Very much applauded was a medley of songs from all over Asia, rendered by the choir of Our Lady of Pillar Catholic School headed by Mr. Oscar O. Pantaleon Jr.
Capping the presentation was a touching performance by Fatima Soriano, a blind young girl who sang “Journey of the Heart,” which talked about courage for the young to face up to their fears and follow their dreams.
Just when everyone thought the festival was about to end, with Fr. Allan Valero thanking everyone, a surprise performer, soul balladeer Christian Bautista, came onstage and sang two numbers, “Jesus Generation,” and the YAsia Fiesta theme.
With everyone’s spirits still in high gear, the show finally ended with another presentation of the YAsia Fiesta theme song, which everyone sang and danced to.
THE CROSS
Symbolizes the centrality of Jesus Christ in the AYD5 event. It is made of bamboo to highlight the unique culture and spirituality of Asians which is integral to their faith.
Moreover, the bamboo's flexibility to bend and steadfastness to stand amidst harsh weather characterize Asian's resiliency in facing the challenges of life with grace and courage.
THE COLORS OF THE PHILIPPINE FLAG
not only indicate the Philippines as the host for the AYD5 event, but also point to Cavite, the flag capital of the country as its local host.
FIVE HEADS FORMING A CUP
represent the four participating sub regions of Asia united by CHRIST, the center head. Young Asians, gather in the name of Christ, share a common faith rooted in the Word and the Eucharist.
The hands of Christ extending like a cup remind us of His encompassing and universal salvific act.
THE SUN
lying at the center where the CROSS stands, Symbolizes availability of the Philippines Church to be of service to the young, to share its richness and dynamism.
THE BANDERITAS
express the fiesta atmosphere that Asians are called to witness to Asia and to the world as a reflection of the joy that spring from deep faith and communication of hearts and minds.
