Support UCSB's 34th Annual Pilipino Cultural Night 2025

In May 2025, UCSB PCN will present its 34th Annual Pilipino Cultural Night. In the past 9 months, we have started our preparation for one of UCSB's oldest and largest student-led productions on campus. Our goal is to showcase the Philippines' culture while allowing students to network, develop new skills, and become part of a close-knit community. PCN raises awareness for the Pilipinx and Pilipinx-American Culture as it strives to convey and highlight issues and values that are not only prominent within Filipino culture but also spread a message that can transcend cultural and ethnic boundaries.

This year, PCN 34 will center around soon-to-be college graduate Francisco Quezon. He has never lived more than 30 minutes from his San Diego home, deeply rooted in his Filipino heritage. As he faces anxiety about his new job in Northern California, he—encouraged by his siblings—decides to send his graduation party invitation to the only people he knows in NorCal: his estranged aunt Katherine and cousin Alli, whom his mother rarely mentions. Knowing it’s a long shot, Francisco and the entire family are stunned when Katherine and Alli actually arrive in San Diego. The biggest shock comes from Francisco’s mother, Maritess, who has long blamed herself for her sister’s departure. Believing Maritess sent the invitation, Kat arrives anxious yet determined to mend their fractured relationship, but can anything truly be repaired after what transpired 22 years ago? As a vibrant fiesta to celebrate the graduation unfolds—complete with traditional Filipino dances, music, and delicious food—the family confronts their past while celebrating their cultural ties, creating an atmosphere rich with both joy and healing.

Alongside the narrative, there will be 6 cultural performances, including Itik Itik, Pandanggo Oasiwas, and the national dance of the Philippines, Tinikling. PCN will also include modern performances such as hip-hop dance and choir ensemble.

For 34 years, Pilipino Cultural Night has given students like us the opportunity to explore their heritage while helping educate the audience on the importance of keeping the Filipino legacy and traditions alive. But with all this, we have mainly relied on fundraising efforts and your donations, with minimal support from the school. Your donation allows us to keep this production alive.