Filipinos on the East Coast took to the streets of New York to mark the 126th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence.

Participants ranged from the indigenous Igorot people of the Cordilleras in northern Philippines to Filipino-Americans at the New York Police Department.

Rev. Efren Esmilla, the first Filipino bishop of Philadelphia in Pennsylvania, blessed this year's festivities.

"May the Lord bless all of us with overflowing graces," he said.

Elected officials from the Philippines also brought with them their colorful festival dancers to the streets of the Big Apple.

They include the Kuyamis and its 80-member festival dancers.

"We are here to promote our tourism industry, promote our culture," said Mayor Erick Cañosa of Gingoog City in Misamis Oriental.

 Two Fil-Am mayors, meanwhile, said June 12 is also a reminder to keep fighting for freedom and democracy, especially amid threats.

"It is important that we remember we each have a role in ensuring that freedom and democracy is spread throughout the world into all people," said Peter Urscheler of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. "We want to make sure our leaders are there, reflecting all of us and our values."

Arvin Amatorio of Bergenfield in New Jersey urged Fil-Ams to go out and vote for deserving leaders in the November elections.

"Let's not forget that our ancestors sacrificed their lives for us to have freedom," he said. "This coming November, let us choose candidates who will protect democracy, and freedom, and unite people here in the U.S."

On June 12, iconic landmarks in New York will light up the colors of the Philippine flag in commemoration of Independence Day.

In New York's border with Canada, Niagara Falls will turn red, white, and blue for 15 minutes beginning at 10 P.M. 

The Governor Mario Cuomo Bridge, meanwhile, will light up the same colors at sunset.