- Island Pacific is here for YOU: In the spirit of Bayanihan! Malakas tayo, magkasama miski magkahiwalay. Yan ang malasakit ng Pinoy! Malasakit Island Pacific! News and Updates
Island Pacific Los Angeles Brings Home Closer with the Biggest Parol Outside the Philippines
Last November 22, 2025, the Filipino community in Los Angeles came together for one of the brightest and most heartwarming celebrations of the season: the Paskong Pinoy Fiesta & Giant Parol Unveiling at Island Pacific. The event was made even more special by the presence of San Fernando Pampanga Mayor Ms. Vilma Caluag, CEO Maite Defensor, Founder Nino Jeff Lim, his wife Krista Lim, the Lim family, and Island Pacific Chairman Matt Ranillo, whose leadership and support helped bring this celebration to life. The event drew a huge crowd of families, friends, and community groups ready to welcome the holiday spirit with the traditions we all grew up with: food, music, games, and the warmth of being surrounded by fellow kababayans.
The giant parol showcased during the event was proudly handcrafted in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines, the Christmas Capital of the country. Standing tall and vibrant, the parol reflected the craftsmanship Pampanga is known for, featuring intricate designs and dazzling lights that symbolize hope, unity, and the enduring spirit of a Filipino Christmas. Its grand unveiling served as a reminder of home, proudly bringing a piece of our heritage to the Filipino community in Los Angeles.
From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted by festive décor, twinkling lights, and the unmistakable feeling of a Filipino Christmas. The aroma of freshly cooked Filipino dishes filled the air! From classic favorites to new holiday specials, creating a feast that instantly made everyone feel at home. Many attendees shared that the event was the closest thing to a true “Paskong Pinoy” experience outside the Philippines.
One of the highlights of the day was the Toy Drive, where guests dropped off new and unwrapped toys for children in need. The donation area quickly filled with colorful gifts, showing the generosity of the community. Alongside that, families enjoyed rounds of classic Filipino games that had people cheering, laughing, and hoping their cards would clinch the next win. Kids and adults alike joined in various activities spread around the venue, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere throughout the day.
As the sun began to set, the anticipation heightened for the main moment everyone had been waiting for, the Biggest Parol Unveiling. The crowd gathered, cameras ready, as the massive parol lit up in a dazzling display of colors. The glow washed over the entire venue, symbolizing hope, unity, and the enduring Filipino spirit. Many attendees paused to take photos and videos, while others simply stood in awe, letting the moment sink in.
But the celebration didn’t end there.
Right after the ceremony, the excitement continued at the much-awaited After Glow Party, running from 10 p.m. to midnight. Guests enjoyed festive music, dancing, and holiday cocktails served on-site (21+ only). The energy shifted from cozy to electric, creating a fun, nightlife-style extension of the holiday event.
At the After Glow party, talented dancers joined and had a dance battle, bringing dancers of all backgrounds together while Filipino professionals showed how it’s truly done. The cypher was packed, but @justjet and @igismalls rose to the finals and battled so fiercely they TIED, both taking home $500 each courtesy of Island Pacific! Hosts Gab Valenciano and Bgirl Mel kept the energy high, while judges Phil Tayag, Siga, and Icy Ives brought artistry and expertise to the floor. Guests also enjoyed Filipino-inspired drinks thanks to Tanduary Rum and Engkanto Brewery as the celebration continued under the glow of the giant parol.
The night was a beautiful blend of tradition, community, and creativity, proof that wherever Filipinos gather, the spirit of Christmas shines the brightest.
The highlight of the After Glow Party was the BER-Kada Battles, an open-style dance battle that brought out some of the most talented dancers in the community. Hosted by Gab Valenciano with co-host Bgirl MEL, the battle drew loud cheers and applause as dancers went head-to-head for cash prizes and bragging rights. The crowd hyped every round, turning the whole area into an exciting dance arena.
It was a night filled with food, entertainment, laughter, giving, and pure Filipino joy! A true celebration of community and culture. The Paskong Pinoy & Parol Unveiling event in Los Angeles once again proved that wherever Filipinos gather, the spirit of Christmas shines the brightest.
