First Annual Coachella Valley Filipino Festival helps kick off Filipino American History Month

It was a lively turnout Saturday at the First Annual Coachella Valley Filipino Festival.

"We were skeptical if there was a big Filipino following in the valley and surprisingly, look at us, we're here and you know, it still gives me chills every time," said Palm Desert native, Raychelle Devilla.

This Filipino festival was the first of its kind, bringing together Filipinos and those that wanted to appreciate the culture.

Susan Wells from Cathedral City said, "I love my culture, I am proud to be part Filipina."  

The food, drinks, and dancing all payed homage to the Filipino culture.

"It’s actually nice to see other Filipinos out here, you don’t really see them that much," said Lee Balmonte.

The festival even featured the 'King of the Road,' the Sarao Jeepney, one of the most popular forms of transportation in the Philipines.

"It brings back their childhood...for me, when I saw the inside, it give me goosebumps," said Devilla who helped bring the installation to the festival.

And what's Filipino appreciation without iconic dishes like chicken adobo, lumpia and pancit.

"Ube is really popular because it has a nice vanilla taste to it," said Balmonte.

Saturday was all about sharing Filipino pride and hospitality in the valley. 

"Bringing a little piece of it here in the valley. I think it just makes us all proud," said Devilla.