Mabuhay, Inc. Culture School (MICS) was established in 1993. It runs during a given school year, every Saturday from 1-3 pm, starting in October thru May at the Holy Family Church in Mitchellville, MD. To enroll in the MICS program, please register here: MICS Registration Form
What is Mabuhay, Inc. Culture School (MICS)?
MICS is a weekend cultural and educational enrichment program for all children ages 4-16. Through its activities, MICS promotes Mabuhay, Inc.’s overall mission of Harmony in Diversity.
What are the objectives of MICS?
MICS is designed to teach the common bonds of history, geography, and culture between the United States and the Philippines. It aims to enhance the self-esteem and cultural competence of young people by learning and sharing the language, customs, and traditions of the Philippines.
How did MICS come about?
MICS was started in 1990 by a group of parents led by Mencie Y. Hairston who saw the need for their growing children to maintain their Filipino traditions and values while adapting to life in the United States.
What is the cost of attending MICS?
Attendance is free to Mabuhay, Inc. members. Non-Mabuhay, Inc. members pay a nominal fee to cover materials and program expenses.
Why is MICS is fun?
– We learn while we play! Our teachers and volunteers make learning fun with hands-on activities in arts and crafts, music, folk dancing, literature, history, and conversational Filipino.
– Children form friendships with children who share similar life experiences and meet adults who successfully navigate our multicultural and multi-ethnic society.
– Children have the opportunities to perform what they learn and build self confidence.
– Older students may fulfill their school volunteer hours requirement at MICS.
How can parents help?
Cultural education is a partnership between parents and teachers. We ask that you bring and pick up your child on time every Saturday. We also encourage that you reinforce your child’s learning by continuing the dialogue at home. You may also be asked to bring merienda (snacks), assist in class or chaperone scheduled field trips.
Passport DC: Around the World Embassy Tour (AWET)
The Mabuhay, Inc. Dance Ensemble is invited annually to perform at the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in Washington, D.C. as part of the Passport DC celebration. Held in May, the event coincides with the observance of Philippine National Heritage Month and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. The Dance Ensemble showcases traditional Filipino dances and cultural heritage to a diverse international audience. Their performance not only strengthens cultural ties within the Filipino-American community but also promotes greater awareness and appreciation of Philippine traditions among the broader public.
– 2024 AWET Press Release
– 2025 AWET Press Release
For questions or further information, please contact Mabuhay, Inc. or its officers directly:
Mabuhay, Inc. – info@mabuhayinc-md.org
Liezl Argente – liezl.argente@mabuhayinc-md.org
Michelle Avillanoza – michelle.avillanoza@mabuhayinc-md.org
Francine Conanan – francine.conanan@mabuhayinc-md.org
Moks Laureles – moks.laureles@mabuhayinc-md.org