Reina Chiong would say that she was born into it — specifically the culture and community of Samahan Filipino American Performing Arts and Education Center. The organization, founded in 1974, was started as a way to foster cultural pride in Filipino American youth through tradition dance and music from the Philippines.
“My mother, Ruby Chiong, the current artistic director, was a company dancer when I was born. … My older sister was a junior dancer at the time, and it was all I knew. It was my norm,” she says, noting that she’s been dancing with Samahan from the time she was a small child. “As I got older, I appreciated it on my own and developed my own ion for the culture.”
Thirty-eight years later, she continues as a company dancer and began serving as president of the board for Samahan in 2021, after having served as vice president for four years. Included among her work on the board and focus on preserving cultural traditions and enriching her community, is the planning of the 36th annual Philippine Cultural Arts Festival from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today at Balboa Park.
Chiong, 42, works for the County of San Diego’s Health and Human Services agency as a caseworker. She lives in Imperial Beach with her partner, Jonathan Macam, and her children, Aiden and Emily Quenaon. She took some time to talk about ing on the traditions she learned to her own children, her work with Samahan, and this year’s cultural arts festival.
Q: Your organization’s website says it was founded in 1974 by the late Lolita Dinoso Carter to help Filipino American youth build pride in their culture and heritage through Philippine dance and music. What kind of understanding did you have of your culture and heritage before ing?
A: I was very young when I ed as a junior dancer. I watching my mom dance on stage. She moved with such grace and emotion. She looked like a Barbie doll in her big and gorgeous fancy dress. Even as young as I was, I understood the stories being told on stage through dance and music. These stories of our ancestors and their traditions, and even superstitions, left an impression on me. As I grew older and began dancing the same dances I watched as a little girl, I understood our culture even more. There is still so much that I need and want to learn about my heritage, so I can the knowledge down to my children.
Q: In what ways has being part of Samahan helped to teach you more?
A: Being a part of Samahan has taught me discipline, patience, and teamwork. I was a shy girl with a lot of energy; being part of Samahan gave me the confidence and opportunity to become a strong leader. Samahan is turning 50 next year and we have several generations involved within the community. I am honored to be a part of this organization and look forward to watching this community grow and flourish.
What I love about Imperial Beach…
I grew up in Chula Vista with my parents and my sisters (I went to Castle Park Elementary, and both Chula Vista Junior and High schools), but Imperial Beach is a hidden gem nestled along the beautiful coastline. It holds a special place in my heart for the unique blend of qualities it offers. What draws me to this charming city is its distinct character that seamlessly balances a small community ambiance with the vibrancy of a lively city. I’m an old soul at heart and Imperial Beach is a perfect fit.
Q: When you think about what it means to develop and have a sense of pride in your identity as a Filipino American, what comes to mind for you?
A: I’ve learned to love my culture and my heritage through Samahan. It has helped me stay true to my Filipino roots while embracing where I live, here in the States. Balancing tradition with our changing times can be a challenge and Samahan has helped me better understand my elders, traditions, mindsets, and way of life. I am a proud Filipino American and hope to continue Samahan’s legacy through my children and the next generation.
Q: The annual Philippine Cultural Arts Festival features dance performances, live music, martial arts exhibitions, food vendors, arts and crafts, and other attractions. As you all were in the planning stages for this year’s event, what were some of your primary goals for this year’s festival?
A: Last year, we had the most vendors in attendance then we’ve ever had. We realized we may be out growing our location at Balboa Park and considered changing to a larger venue. (Samahan founder) Dr. Lolita Carter chose this location over 30 years ago and I felt it was important to maintain Balboa Park as our venue. With these changes, we did not have to turn away vendors. My goal is to uphold Samahan’s mission, while creating partnerships with our community.
Q: What do you hope people experience at this year’s festival?
A: I hope that people will experience the elevation of Filipino culture through our artistic endeavors. I hope people will enjoy the community, dance and music classes rooted in research-based material and lived experiences directly from the Philippines. I hope people will experience Filipino culture through the performances of dance, music and living traditions, while enhancing the appreciation of cultural diversity in the community.
Q: Can you talk about the significance of some of the traditional folk dances and indigenous Filipino dances that people will see today?
A: Filipino folk dances and music performed in festivals, rituals, celebrations, weddings and even courtships, portray the people’s rich culture and traditions, whose diversity reflect influences of various races—Chinese, Indian, Indonesian, Malay, Spanish, Portuguese and American, who came to stay in the islands as migrants, traders, or colonizers throughout the history of the Philippines. The indigenous tribes in the Cordillera Mountains in Northern Luzon, as well as the Islamic societies and indigenous tribes in Mindanao and Sulu Archipelago in Southern Philippines, have preserved their culture, dances and music from Western influence for centuries, including up to the present time.
Q: What’s been rewarding about your work with Samahan?
A: Witnessing the next generation learn, embrace, and show pride in their heritage and culture. I am the second generation, while my children are now proudly representing the third generation; watching them on stage brings me all the happiness I could ask for. Having my children involved in Samahan allows us to spend time together that we may not always get between school and work. This keeps a strong bond between us and watching their excitement to be involved is very rewarding. It gives me great joy to step back and watch the youth foster excitement for the culture, build relationships, and have fun. I find joy in watching the past generation board who dedicated their time, effort, and ion, witnessing the fruits of their labor in each new generation.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A: Volunteering is not just about giving, but also about receiving. The experiences, connections, and personal growth you gain through volunteering are invaluable. Approach each opportunity with an open heart and a willingness to learn. Your time and effort can make a significant positive impact, not only on the lives of others, but also on your own.
Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to find out about you?
A: I’ve never been blessed to visit the Philippines—yet! Someday, I hope to enjoy the homeland with my children and visit family. This will only enhance our understanding and our pride to be Filipino American.
Q: Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend.
A: My ideal San Diego weekend revolves around cherishing precious moments with my kids and family, creating lasting memories while exploring the events of this wonderful city. With quality family time to kick off the weekend, I look forward to joyful adventures with my kids and family. Whether it’s a leisurely morning walk by the beach or a visit to a nearby park, every activity promises to be filled with laughter, bonding, and shared experiences that strengthen our connections. Then, I envision a relaxing day spent in the cozy comfort of our home. This is the time to unwind and engage in activities that bring us joy: board games, video games, and movie marathons can fill the day with warmth and laughter.
