Ivatan East Coast Association (USA) formed

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by Darling and Honey Aguto

Some 20 Ivatans from East coast USA organized themselves last Novemebr 22, 2007. Thru the initiative of Mr. Ronald Aguto and Ms. Mary Horcajo, these Ivatans met on thanksgiving day to form what is now known as the Ivatan East Coast Association, USA, members of which come from Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, New York, and New Jersey. It hopes to recruit more Ivatans who are based on the East coast .

The vision of the association is to promote Ivatan solidarity and cooperation among themselves. It also aims to engage in fruitful ventures which could eventually help needy Ivatans in their area as well as in Batanes.

An election and induction followed during their christmas party last December 16, 2007 which took place at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Antonio and Cresencia Ablat in Rockville, Maryland. The elected officials were as follows, Fely Loreto (President), Cresencia Ablat (V.President, Lower east coast area), Dr. Francis Cielo (V. President, Upper East Coast), Algerica Agsunod-Hudziec (Secretary), Cory Eligado (Treasurer), Lily Fainza-Bacarisas (PRO), Zosimo Ybay (Auditor), Milagros Balanay-Barsana (Representative), Aida Aguas-Fabro (Representative).

Mr. and Mrs. Ronald and Elisa Aguto were tapped to be the consultant/adviser. Quarterly meetings will initially be held in Maryland where the association is based. Informal gatherings though come easily on weekends and other occasions where they can unwind and promote the Ivatan camaraderie we have been known for.

Please click photo for larger view.

		Dios Mamajes!

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