New Diwa to be known April 30

The new Diwa ng Kalayaan (Spirit of Independence) will be revealed on April 30 when the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) stage the pageant and coronation of the winner at the Crowne Plaza Meadowlands at 2 Harmon Plaza in Secaucus, N.J.

Outgoing Diwa ng Kalayaan Vina Joy Verzosa, a 19-year-old nursing student from Bergenfield, N.J., will turn over the crown to the 2005 winner, who will be chosen from among six young finalists. The event will start at 6 p.m.

The Diwa search is part of the commemoration of the 107th anniversary of the Philippine Independence from Spain, and has become one of the highlights of the Philippine celebration in the New York area, now on its 16th year.

The Diwa ng Kalayaan will reign for one year, serving as ambassador of goodwill, representing the Filipino-American community. She and her court of beauties grace the annual Philippine Independence Day parade and festival in June on Madison Avenue in Manhattan.

The event aims to develop and instill in candidates awareness, understanding and appreciation of Philippine culture, history, values, heritage and “Filipinism,” according to Nimia Lacebal, president of the PIDCI. “It honors and showcases the intelligence, talent and beauty of a Filipina.”

“The contest is also designed to serve as a vehicle for unity, understanding, progress and positive interaction among members of the Fil-Am community,” Lacebal said.

Donation to the event is $65. Attire is formal.

For tickets and other information, call Dr. Rommel Rivera, search committee chair, at (610) 892-2712; Elvira Reyes, co-chair, (551) 208-4986; Dr. Ellice Flores, (973) 338-4668; Vivian Velasco, (917) 623-3827, Nanette Sering Wright, (212) 787-8795, Romeo Goingo, (203) 467-8116 or Nena Guevarra, (203) 264-9855.