For nearly 40 years, the annual Philippine Independence Day celebration in Carson, California has been one of the longest running and biggest Filipino-American gatherings since 1986.

The event has drawn thousands of Filipinos to one of America’s densest Filipino populations for a day of food, music, and culture.

"I’m proud that this is happening in Carson because 20 percent of our roughly 100,000 population are of Filipino descent," said Fred Docdocil, president of the Philippine Independent Day Foundation, Inc.

He added: "We might not have a historic designation but we have representation here in this community."

City officials and the foundation recently announced that the celebration this year will have extra star power, along with some "pure energy."

As Filipino-American rapper Apl.de.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas was introduced as the grand marshall, Gary Valenciano was revealed as the headlining performer.  

"Come and join me and this year’s grand marshal, as we celebrate Filipino history and culture," said the celebrated Filipino singer known as "Mr. Pure Energy."

Apl.de.Ap, whose real name is Allan Pineda, said participating in events like the Independence Day celebration makes him feel at home.

"That's my support system, what makes me who I am," he said. "I think about where I’m from my family and my culture. Any moment to represent and showcase our culture, I’m all about it."

Organizers explained that the philanthropic history of Apl.de.Ap inspired them to name him grand marshal.

The Apl.de.Ap Foundation is working on a project to upgrade jeepneys in the Philippines.

"We want to be able to train a whole generation of students and young people that can sustain and maintain that transition from gas guzzler to [electric vehicles]," said Ted Benito of the foundation.

The free all-day celebration will take place on June 8 at Veterans Park in Carson.

With Apl.de.Ap and Gary V taking the stage, the event is expected to give Filipinos throughout the region a sense of pride and a feel of home.