Filipino-Alaskans gather to celebrate culture and community

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – The 14th annual Mat-Su Kabayan Gala invited Filipinos, and those who appreciate the culture, to Wasilla to celebrate and appreciate their heritage on Saturday.

The Filipino community in Alaska is about 30,000 strong, staff at the event said, and is a tight-knit community. Event coordinator Lhing McNeal said she believes it’s crucial to connect Filipino families with each other, especially those who might not know exactly what their culture looks like.

“We are so far away from home, we need that community,” said McNeal.

Dancing and traditional food are the highlights of the event every year. McNeal said the event is also about young Filipinos needing see themselves represented in the community.

“To pass it on with our culture and traditions,” said McNeal. “That way our children will be able to see it and promote it to the next generation.”

Deputy commissioner of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Nelson San Juan, said the Mat-Su Kabayan Gala makes him proud to call Alaska home.

“I couldn’t ask for a better community,” said San Juan. “This group is just so communal. The state of Alaska in general is communal.”

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