Event to mark Philippine holiday

The Filipino American Association of the Inland Empire will celebrate Philippine Independence Day on Saturday at the Red Lion Hotel at the Park.

The Independence Day Ball 21st Anniversary begins at 4:30 p.m. with a no-host cocktail bar and a silent auction. Dinner is at 6 p.m. Cultural entertainment, including folkloric dancing, is at 7:30 p.m. A dance begins at 9 p.m.

The association, which has 250 to 300 members, was founded in Spokane in 1986. Its annual ball marks the anniversary of Philippine independence from Spain on June 12, 1898, according to association president Norma Gavin.

Tickets are $40, available in advance only, by calling one of several association members, including Gavin, 448-6464; Linda Carreon, 879-7275; Lolita Comstock, 927-1788; and A.J. Bambao, 244-8352, all at area code 509.

Donations are accepted, with proceeds benefiting scholarships and a building fund for a proposed Filipino-American cultural center.