June 14, 2025, at Torslanda Torg was a day to remember as the Filipino community in Sweden gathered to celebrate the 127th Philippine Independence Day. This marked the second time the event was hosted in Torslanda, made possible through the collective efforts of our community and the enduring spirit of Bayanihan.
Bayanihan: The Heart of the Celebration
Bayanihan is part of the Filipino tradition, the very soul of Filipino culture. It means communal unity, helping one another, and working together towards a common goal. Historically, it’s famously symbolized by neighbors literally carrying a house on their shoulders to help a family move. Today, that same spirit of cooperation lives on, not through houses but through shared dreams and meaningful projects.
The success of this celebration was the result of modern-day Bayanihan. Over the past year, we met like-minded individuals who shared the same passion for uplifting the Filipino community. Together, we formed a dedicated committee that worked tirelessly to bring this event to life. It was built on generosity, teamwork, and the unwavering desire to make our community proud.
The Philippine Independence Day Celebration 2025 Committee. From left to right (Francis Ocampo, Erlyn Ocampo, Montclair Lee, Lorraine Hager, Montcliff Lee, Walter Reataza, Maragarita Libao Norden, Airoll Karlsson, Leonora Burgos, Neil Karlsson, Carrie Ann Aczon). Not in the photo: Jerry Rariza, Allan Perlado, Lolita Eliasson, Larissa Macasero
A Message from Merkado PH: Growing Together as a Community
At Merkado PH, we cannot fully explain the joy and gratitude we feel in witnessing how our community has grown and stood firmly for what we believe in.
Though we began as a Filipino store providing groceries and essentials, the journey has become so much more than just business. We are truly in awe of the incredible support that people have shown us since the very first day we opened our doors.
Your trust and your continued presence have shown us that Merkado PH is not just a shop, it is a platform, a home, and a symbol of connection for Filipinos in Sweden.
Thank you for standing with us, for growing with us, and for believing in what we do. Together, we will continue to celebrate our culture, uplift one another, and keep the Bayanihan spirit alive wherever we are in the world.
"We are the family behind Merkado PH, a small business with a big dream: to bring a taste of home to our fellow Filipinos here in Sweden, and to create a platform that uplifts everything Filipino. Our products, our talents, and our culture. We were deeply honored to be part of this celebration."
A Day of Faith, Culture, and Filipino Pride
The day began with a Catholic Mass celebrated by Father Ron Toledo, joined by the Filipino Catholic Community in Sweden. We are deeply grateful to Father Ron Toledo and the Filipino Catholic Community for the confidence and trust they have placed in us. Their presence and support made it possible to hold a meaningful Catholic Mass right on the grounds of Torslanda Torg. It was a beautiful way to start the celebration, grounding us in faith, gratitude, and unity.
Father Ron Toledo and co. © Photo: Christian Raphael Servando
The program officially opened with a live performance of the Philippine National Anthem by the Lee brothers (Montclair, Montcliff and Montfort), which was a heartfelt and proud moment for all.
We were honored by the presence of Consul General Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga and Honorary Consul David Kristensson, who both delivered inspiring keynote messages that uplifted the Filipino community.
Throughout the day, the stage came alive with traditional folk dances, modern performances, and live music from various local bands, beautifully showcasing the vibrant and evolving Filipino culture.
Showcasing Filipino Artistry
One of the highlights of this year’s celebration was the opportunity to feature and support Filipino artists who showcased the beauty of Filipino craftsmanship and creativity.
Their presence not only added color to the event but also reminded us of the importance of preserving and promoting Filipino artistry abroad.
A Feast of Flavors and Community
While the program was in full swing, the square was buzzing with Filipino food stalls serving classic dishes and desserts that brought comfort and nostalgia to everyone present. Filipino entrepreneurs and vendors showcased not just food but a wide variety of products and services, creating a vibrant marketplace that felt like home.
We also welcomed various Filipino businesses, community groups, and organizations, giving them a platform to connect with the wider community and celebrate Filipino entrepreneurship.
A Celebration for All
With over 1,500 attendees, Filipinos and non-Filipinos from all over Sweden, the event was more than just a celebration of freedom. It became a space of friendship, cultural exchange, and community-building. It was heartwarming to see how our traditions, food, and artistry resonated with people of different backgrounds.
Moving Forward Together
This year’s Philippine Independence Day Celebration in Torslanda stands as a proud reminder of what we can achieve through Bayanihan, community, and shared purpose.
It was an event of a living expression of who we are as Filipinos, and how far we can go when we lift each other up.
To the hardworking committee, volunteers, sponsors, vendors, performers, artists, and everyone who joined us, maraming salamat po!
Let’s continue to build, celebrate, and uplift one another, here in Sweden and beyond.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang kulturang Pilipino sa Sweden!
📰 Media & Press Coverage
We’re incredibly grateful to Irene Karlsson for her heartwarming article that landed on the front page of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Irene, thank you for capturing the spirit of Bayanihan, the pride of our culture, and the joy of our Filipino community here in Sweden. You made us feel seen and proud — maraming salamat po!
📖 Read Philippine Daily Inquirer article here
A big thank you as well to Henrik Edberg of Torslanda-Öckerötidningen for once again supporting our celebration and highlighting our Filipino artists, vendors, and community spirit. Your continued coverage helps shine a light on what we do — tack så jättemycket, Henrik!
📖 Read Torslanda-Öckerötidningen's article here
🎥 Relive the Moments
👉 Follow and watch this video playlist we’ve put together, capturing highlights from that joyous event:
