By Mel Fernandez
AUCKLAND – Awards nights can turn into stuffy affairs where people sit around restlessly, clapping as one award after another is announced.
In the case of the Filipino-Kiwi Hero Awards “we have tried to hype up the event with a dash of glamour, fun and excitement to keep attention levels at peak levels,” said Sheila Mariano, Publisher, SM Publications group.
As expected, the 2022 Awards did not disappoint, because the event was interspersed with a line-up of star performers, two spectacular fashion shows and an exciting Igorot flash dance.
In the days following the event, social media was inundated with compliments. “Thanks for inviting me to be a part of the Hero Awards and Amba Gary’s farewell night. It was a great celebration. Well done,” said Vilma Schrieber, a business leader and sponsor of the plaques for the heroes.
Lyn Irene Yangot Idio, Igorot Community Leader: “Thank you Mel Fernandez and Sheila Mariano for hosting a great night to remember! We met new acquaintances from all over NZ and reconnected with old friends.”
Gladys Stephens, Hamilton Filipino Society: “Thanks Mel Fernandez and Sheila Mariano for organising the 124th Philippine Independence Day Celebration 2022. Well done!”
Anita Mansell, QSM and Board Member of the Lower Hutt Multicultural Society: “Thank you for recognising individuals and groups who do wonderful things.”
Aisha Ronquillo, award winning photo-journalist: “To Mel Fernandez, Sheila Mariano and the team behind the Hero Awards. Congratulations on a successful, peaceful and highly organized event.”
Community leaders present at the event were Chris Cadag – chair of the Filipino Society, Sir Oscar and Madam Mariam Batucan – organisers of the Sinulog celebrations, Leah Baterbonia – board member, Multicultural Association of Hawkes Bay, Nick Salas – Chairman of the NZ Philippines Business Council, as well as representatives of Igorotak NZ (Palmerston North), the Philippine Club of Rotorua, Migrante Aotearoa and Pinoy Adventurers New Zealand.
The emcee of the event was Film, TV and radio personality Asia Agcaoili and the awards segment emcees were Gazelle Garcia and Marivic Murray. The choreographer and stage director was Alyx Ty, who was a former Hero Award winner and the AV specialist was Dexter Ycong.
Melodika Band:
The Melodika Band is a Kiwi group that sings OPM hits in Tagalog. This is the third time they have been invited to headline the Hero Awards entertainment program.
It was a special treat listening to their new track – a foot-tapping version of ‘Kaleidoscope World’, a song composed by the late Francis Magalona.
Carmelo Laylo:
The glamourous Carmelo Laylo, a pageant winner and business high-flyer from Palmerston North, performed ‘Amakabogera’, a dance choreographed by Raines Symons. Her Queen Squad Dancers were Jeanna Mangoma, Charlotte Buccahan, Charmaine Joy Buccahan and Aica Hunt.
“What a night! It was such a delight and honour to be able to take part in the 6th Filipino-Kiwi Hero awards, to farewell our Ambassador Gary and to celebrate the 124th Philippine Independence Day in Auckland,” said Carmelo Laylo.
“It is sad that you are ending your term, Hon. Amba Gary. Thank you for your outstanding service to the Filipino community! God bless you Sir.”
Angela Tin:
“I performed my winning pieces ‘It’s All Coming Back To Me Now’ by Celine Dion and ‘Bang Bang’ by Jessie J, Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj,” said Angela Tin, this year’s winner of the Filipino-Kiwi Music Award.
“Ambassador Gary Domingo was sporting enough to dance with me; he definitely entertained the audience!” said Tin. “It was a great honour to share the stage with you (Amba Gary) and witness how humble and sporting you are. You are a great leader and undeniably loved by our kababayans.”
KAYE N:
Kaye N, an up-and-coming singer, sang ‘Rainbow’ by South Border.
