BICOL USA - Houston chapter is well on their way to sponsoring the annual Feast of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, on Saturday, September 18, 1999, 10:30A.M., at the Notre Dame Catholic Church. The 9-day novena, which is coordinated by Alcie & Milo Chancoco, began September 9, at the chapel of the St Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Different volunteer couples lead the rosary and novena prayers each day. Ms. Rose Reyes, ] Assistant Treasurer, is this year’s chairperson of the celebration and is ably assisted by Ms. Delia Crescini. Fr. Nick Pasadilla, pastor of Notre Dame parish, will preside the mass, assisted by guest Filipino priests. Procession and fellowship will follow immediately at the parish community center. Cultural presentation by the BICOL Youth will highlight the program, with Lingling Chancoco and Jason Zalun, as emcees.
“Viva la Virgen de Peñafrancia!” Thank ya’ll for making the 1999 BNAA Convention a resounding success!.
Others: Plans & activities for the Christmas party on December 18, 1999, at the YWCA - Houston, is chaired by Ms. Lutchie Templonuevo, Public Relations Officer.
The Bicol USA - Houston Chapter hosted the 19th Bikol National Association of America Convention last July 16, 17 and 18,1999. The convention showcased the hospitality, cooperation and leadership that could only produce one end - an impeccable success! Delegations after delegations arrived Friday, July 16 to the very warm welcome of the Bicolanos of the Houston Chapter.
Bicol USA-Houston Chapter president Archie Zalun and members mirrored the warm welcome with their presence in the lobby of the Adam's Mark Hotel. In an almost choreographed movement, there were: vice president Ferdie Mirabueno, pro Lutchie Templonuevo, advisers Milo and Alcie Chancoco, past presidents and advisers Adolf Manlangit, and Mario Tecson, and adviser Norma Benzon, to name a few, all graciously greeting the delegates to see to their comforts and to ensure them of directions for the next series of activities.
The welcome party held at the St. Cyril of Alexandria Catholic Church Community Center was heavily attended by delegates and local members. Entertainment by local performers and participation of the youth with some numbers from the visiting delegations, created a tremendous welcome to the Bicolanos from other states. Only the prospect of the convention the following day forced everybody to break up the evening of glorious reception by the BicolUSA-Houston Chapter.
Saturday, July 17th marked the convention.