By: Kyrie Sismaet
Tuesday, September 19- It was an evening of local and cultural pride in the East Bay as the Oakland A’s hosted their Filipino Heritage Night while facing off against the Seattle Mariners.
As soon as the afternoon kicked off at 5:10pm, the perfectly sunny championship plaza was filled with vibrant merriment, talented music, and delectable food, all to celebrate Filipino culture. Those first 1,000 visitors early in attendance for the game received the opportunity to take home a custom commemorative hat with a stylish Filipino design under the brim, as well as obtain a free item from Senor Sisig’s food truck. “I’m so happy to be here celebrating two things very close to my identity- being Filipino-American, and the A’s, of course!” One event-goer gleams while waiting at their long line.
The line for Senor Sisig’s food truck trailed long with those claiming their free item for arriving early.
Fran Boogie, Anthony Presents, DJ Jaymeebaaby, and DJ Aux Cord all provided the electrifying ambience before the game, presenting lively beats and amusing commentary to hype up the crowd. Marley’s Streats, a scrumptious Bay Area favorite based in Hayward, was also a hit, satisfying all of those with a sweet tooth with their creative takes on classic Filipino desserts.
Female R&B group OneVo1ce stun while performing the national anthem.
On the field, OneVo1ce was in perfect harmony in belting out the national anthem, and accomplished rapper P-Lo threw the ceremonial first pitch before being seen relaxing with fans in the crowd. Similar to their recent showcase at Oracle Park, the Mabuhay Folkloric Society and Kariktan Dance Company performed a mesmerizingly precise routine that demonstrated their choreographed prowess while also uplifting tradition.
Rapper P-Lo seen mingling with friends and fans while enjoying the game.
While the game itself proved to be not the A’s strongest, finishing 2-7, it was still overall an exceptional night of community and culture that has sure primed the Bay Area for a rich Filipino Heritage Month soon in October.
