A yearly Filipino picnic organized by the 'coalition' (including the Phil Embassy) to commemorate Filipino independence from Spanish colonizers. Since this is from the point of view of the embassy, this activity is more aimed to gather Filipinos all over (the) Netherlands, not to commemorate the lessons and triumphs of the 1896 revolution, but just to have a yearly and nationwide gathering and Independence day is a good excuse.

However, for the most of Filipinos here, ID is also their good excuse to take a rest from their busy schedules, a place where they can both relax, buy mangoes and other Filipino products, eat Filipino foods with their kababayans and non-kababayans, catch up with their friends and families and meet new acquaintances.

This is a family outing, a get together, an R & R expedition. They don't mind bringing big tents, barbecue grills and all other paraphernalia. Doing the labor-intensive preparation of food is no big deal in exchange for a one-day-in-a -year chance to socialize, have fun with their kababayans on a nationwide scale. Some even brought their own generator to run their videoke's. Typical pinoy - their love for singing and dancing will be with them wherever they go.

Most of all, this is also a time where they can have the "Philippines" feeling just by being with their compatriots, seeing them and realizing that they are not alone in this place.

Progressive and militant organizations here also joined the activity since this is a good opportunity to promote the organizations and its campaigns and activities, mingle with compatriots and share all the good foods to everybody.

To note, 3 years ago, we tried to take part in the program and the coalition agreed. But on the actual moment, they did not have us performed. Of course, the embassy knows us, that's why.