"Courage, Determination, and Bayanihan Spirit Define Us As a People" - Amb. Romualdez

Ambassador Jose Manuel G. Romualdez delivers a toast during the 126th Philippine Independence Day special reception for Filipino Community partners.

WASHINGTON D.C. – The Philippine Embassy proudly celebrated the 126th Philippine Independence Day with a reception specially organized for several Filipino community leaders and partners on 12 June 2024 at Philippine Embassy Chancery Annex, a historic and national landmark, located along Embassy Row in Washington, D.C. This significant event commemorated the country’s proclamation of independence from Spanish colonial rule on June 12, 1898.

Local vocal powerhouse Raina Chan performs a medley of Filipino songs and other pop culture numbers at the Philippine Embassy.

The reception was an evening filled with cultural pride, reflection, and unity. Distinguished guests, community leaders, and members of the Filipino community gathered to honor the rich heritage and achievements of the Philippines. The event featured a keynote address by Ambassador Jose Manuel G. Romualdez and video messages from Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., and Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Enrique A. Manalo.

Ambassador Romualdez leads the singing of the Philippine National Anthem during the Philippine Embassy’s 126th Independence Day reception.

Ambassador Romualdez stated, “As we celebrate our independence, we are reminded of the courage, determination, and bayanihan spirit that define us as a people. We are inspired to continue their work in our own unique ways, always striving to uplift one another and our communities as we build a brighter future together.”

The community listens to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s 126th Independence day video message.

He also expressed gratitude to the community leaders saying, “I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to YOU, the members of the Filipino community in the DMV and the Caribbean who are here tonight, for your unwavering support of the Embassy and its activities. May we be inspired to continue promoting unity, cultural pride, and active participation in shaping a better future for our communities both here and in our homeland.”

A special cultural performance by local Filipino-American vocalist, Ms. Raina Chan, featured Filipino music and pop culture. The Philippine Independence Day Reception was a memorable evening that honored the past, celebrated the present, and looked forward to a prosperous future.

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MWA-OWWA Washington DC Celebrates Migrant Workers Day in Cayman Islands

The MWO-OWWA of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC, joined the community parade as Filipinos celebrate the Filipino Migrant Workers Day in Grand Cayman.

WASHINGTON D.C. – The Migrant Workers Office and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (MWO-OWWA) of the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC, celebrated the Filipino Migrant Workers Day on June 9, 2024 at the Lion’s Community Center in Grand Cayman, Islands. Organized by the Philippine Independence Day Committee (PIDC) in Cayman Islands, the annual celebration in honor of the Filipino Migrant Workers was the first ever to be undertaken in the Caribbean. 

Labor Attaché De Vries (4th from the left), Welfare Office Codilla (4th from the right), Assistant Labor Attaché Marie Josephine Borromeo (3rd from the right) and SSS Representative Celenia Dimaano (2nd from the left) during the celebration of the Filipino Migrant Workers Day

The fun-filled event was marked by talent competition, raffle prizes and entertainment, which complemented the Philippine Independence Day celebration in the islands. Over 500 overseas Filipino workers attended the festivities. Six (6) OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) contestants competed in the “Talentadong Migranteng Pinoy,” a talent contest organized by MWO-OWWA which showcased the exceptional talents of the OFWs in the Cayman Islands. Each contestant impersonated an international or local artist of their choice. OFW Ernesto Ullamot Jr., who impersonated Engelbert Humperdinck, was declared champion, while OFW Jelly Dela Cruz (as Adele) and OFW Joey Alibangbang (as Rihanna) placed second and third, respectively. OFW Rachel Pagador (Julie Ann San Jose), Maphet Labarosa (Whitney Houston) and Raven Pimentel (Sam Smith) also competed and received consolation prizes.

OFW Information and Service Caravan by MWO, OWWA and the Social Security System (SSS). Pag-IBIG Fund, PhilHealth and OF Bank also joined the caravan virtually and extended their services .

“We thought of holding the event in the Cayman Islands to give the OFWs  in the Caribbean an opportunity to celebrate their day. We have been commemorating Migrant Workers Day all over the world since 1995 but never have we done it in the Caribbean until this event,” said Welfare Officer Mae Codilla.

Meanwhile, Labor Attaché Saul De Vries said that the MWO opted to hold the celebration in Cayman Islands because it has the largest concentration of Filipino migrant workers among the more than 30 countries and territories situated in the Caribbean, a sub-region of the Americas. The Cayman Islands host around 6,000 OFWs , which is the largest OFW population in the Caribbean region. 

The event was marked by a talent competition, raffle prizes, and entertainment, which complemented the Philippine Independence Day celebration in the islands.

The celebration was preceded by a two-day OFW Information and Service Caravan by MWO, OWWA and the Social Security System (SSS) benefitting around 400 OFWs who availed of such services as contract verification, OWWA membership renewal and SSS membership verification and claims processing. Pag-IBIG Fund, PhilHealth and OF Bank also joined the caravan and extended their services virtually. The MWO reported that it has verified the employment contracts of 291 OFWs, processed the accreditation of 4 foreign employers, enrolled or renewed the membership of 334 OFWs in OWWA and assisted 112 OFWs with their SSS membership and claims. The OFWs were also provided financial literacy orientation. 

Labor Attaché De Vries, Welfare Office Codilla and SSS Representative Celenia Dimaano also gave presentations about DMW regulations, OWWA benefits and SSS programs, respectively.  Completing the caravan team were Assistant Labor Attaché Marie Josephine Borromeo, Mr. Jo Mari Rifareal and Ms. Freya Palad.

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JCI North Jersey's 10th Anniversary Gala, Celebrating a Decade of Impact, July 14

New Jersey – JCI North Jersey will be commemorating ten years of community service, leadership, and fellowship at  the 10th Anniversary Gala which will be held on July 14, 2024, at 1085 Galloping Hill Rd, Union, NJ 07083. This milestone event promises an afternoon filled with celebration, inspiration, and a look back at a decade of impactful projects and initiatives. 

JCI North Jersey has been a beacon of community development and leadership training in the state. Over the past decade, members have dedicated countless hours to various community projects, leadership programs, and initiatives aimed at fostering positive change. 

“Our 10th Anniversary Gala is not just a celebration of our past achievements but also a pledge to continue our mission of empowering young people to create positive change,” said Rachel Beth Tamayo, 2024 Chapter President of JCI North Jersey. 

The event will feature: Keynote Speeches from prominent community leaders; an Awards Ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions; Dinner and Entertainment, including live music and performances; Networking Opportunities with local leaders and change-makers.

Be inspired, build community and celebrate as JCI North Jersey reflect on a decade of achievements and look forward to future endeavors. 

For more information, please contact Dianne Bautista, Project Chair & 2024 External Vice President, at evp@jcinorthjersey.org or 908-392-5338. 

You can also visit the JCI North Jersey Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/jcinorthjersey 

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Photos: Filipinos Gather Outside the UN for a Vigil Prayer Rally for Peace and Justice; Demonstrators Pray for President Marcos to Resign and Call for a Peaceful Political Transition in the Philippines

Members of "Hakbang ng Maisug" USA and Sara Duterte Supporters held a vigil prayer rally for peace and justice across the United Nations headquarters in Manhattan. During the more than 30 minutes program rallyists also prayed for President Marcos Jr to resign and asked or a peaceful political transition in the Philippines.

Saturday, June 22, 2024. New York. Contributed photos. All rights reserved.

Video of the Vigil Prayer Rally can be watched via SDS New York Facebook page

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Opinion: Online Comments Amid VP Sara Duterte Resignation; Low Ranking by Filipino Students at Int'l Test; Alice Guo Story; UPAAA Online Conversations; PAFCOM Parade and Couples for Christ Anniversary By Manuel Caballero

ON MY WATCH

By MANUEL L. CABALLERO

MEATY POST IN FB SAYS, "VP SARA DUTERTE FINALLY MADE AN EDUCATED DECISION (TO RESIGN)"; HER DECISION CAME OUT HOURS BEFORE THE STORY THAT FILIPINO STUDENTS WERE AMONG THE POOREST IN CREATIVE THINKING IN TESTS GIVEN IN 64 COUNTRIES; ALICE GUO STORY NOT ANYMORE FUNNY; UPAAA OBSERVES PH INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH ONLINE CONVERSATIONS;  PAFCOM ANNUAL PARADE ON SUNDAY, JUNE 23; CFC OBSERVES 43RD

On June 21, 2023, I  wrote this column like what I'm doing today, June 21, 2024, eve of my birthday.  The big difference is the temperature in NJ. It is 98 degrees F.! But, I would prefer that my friends greet me on my good friend Edwin Josue's birthday post tomorrow. As we know, Edwin is  birthday greeter in FB of every FilAm. Hehe. I hope he intends to greet me. 

I thank God for my health, for my family and friends.

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The resignation of VP Sara Duterte as Secretary of Education gave rise to some meaty and witty commentaries in social media. Here are some:

"She is not an educator. So, she resigned. Sara should have an 'h' at the end now...for honesty."

Finally, the VP made an "educated decision."

"No more fun in the job because there's no fund."

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The news about the Veep's resignation came out shortly before another discouraging PH education news was released. The PH was among the four lowest among 64 countries whose 15-year-old students were given exams to determine creativity in thinking or what to do with a given idea. That's another sad ranking for PH education that could make an education secretary to step down.

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Various PH government agencies are preparing formal charges against Alice Guo, the suspended mayor of Bamban, Tarlac who is allegedly involved in POGO illegal operations in Tarlac and Pampanga. She is also being suspected as having used fake documents to obtain birth certificate and passport . Other supposed illegal activities are being looked into against Ms. Alice. We will watch this story closely.

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The UPAAA is celebrating this year's PH Independence with four online  conversations via Zoom. Tonight's topics are PH Diaspora and History. 

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On Sunday, June 23, will be the annual PAFCOM Parade and Festival in Jersey City. It will be held at the West Side section of the city.

Come on down folks!

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The global Catholic lay organization Couples for Christ or CFC observes its 43rd Anniversary. Thank you Lord for CFC.

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"Serbisyong Konsulado sa Pistahang Bayan" at Lincoln Park, Jersey City, June 30

The Philippine Consulate General in New York is pleased to inform the public that it will open its doors to provide Passport, Dual Citizenship, and Notarial services at Pistahang Bayan 2024 on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Lincoln Park, Jersey City, NJ, from 10 AM to 2 PM.  

Pistahang Bayan 2024

In Commemoration of the 126th Year Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood, the Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with the Filipino Community of the US Northeast, invites everyone to join the Pistahang Bayan 2024 on Sunday, June 30, at Lincoln Park, Jersey City, NJ.

Experience the Heart and Soul of Filipino Culture. Celebrate Filipino Talent at Pistahang Bayan 2024.

Watch as the community's brightest stars take the stage. From traditional folk dances to modern pop hits, don't miss this spectacular showcase of Filipino artistry.

Come and enjoy a taste of home with a fiesta just like the ones back in the Philippines. With a variety of activities, delicious food, and cultural performances, Pistahang Bayan 2024 will bring the spirit of a traditional Filipino celebration to life.

Pistahang Bayan 2024, a day of cultural pride and community connection on June 30, Sunday from 10am - 5pm at Lincoln Park, Jersey City, NJ.

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Photos: In New York, Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer and Consul General Senen Mangalile Leads the Community in a Flag Raising Ceremony in Honor of the 126th Year of Philippine Independence

New York City Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer and Consul General Senen Mangalile Leads the Community in a Flag Raising Ceremony in Honor of the 126th Year of Philippine Independence. Bowling Green, Manhattan. June 17, 2024. New York.

Photos by Lambert Parong/ Kababayan Media © 2024 All Rights Reserved.

Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer.  Lambert Parong

Bowling Green, Oldest Public Park in New York.  Lambert Parong 

Consul General Senen Mangalile, Philippine Consulate General, New York.  Lambert Parong

Krizia Daya sings "Bayan Ko" to start the program.  Lambert Parong

Members of the Filipino Community Join in a Flag Raising Ceremony in Honor of the 126th Year of Philippine Independence.  Lambert Parong

Lambert Parong

Leadership Initiative for Modern Bukidnon Artists and Youth (LIMBAY).  Lambert Parong

Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer, Office for Economic and Workforce Development.  Lambert Parong

Lambert Parong

BIBAK NY performs an ‘Igorot Ethnic Dance'.  Lambert Parong

BIBAK NY.  Lambert Parong

Consul General Senen Mangalile.  Lambert Parong

Lambert Parong

Commissioner Manuel Castro, Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs.  Lambert Parong

Lambert Parong

Assemblymember Steven Raga, New York State, District 30.  Lambert Parong

Commissioner Edward Mermelstein, Mayor's Office for International Affairs.  Lambert Parong

Jocelyn Bernal, Budget Manager, NYU College of Dentistry.  Lambert Parong

Kevin Nadal, Ph.D. Distinguished Professor of Psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Lambert Parong

Arthur Piccolo, Chairman, Bowling Green Association.  Lambert Parong

Romel Cañete, Vice Chairman, Newmark New York.  Lambert Parong

Lambert Parong

Angela Tolosa, Senior Advisor, NYC Administration for Children's Services.  Lambert Parong

Arman David, PIDCI; Potri Ranka Manis, Kinding Sindaw; Dely Go, Nursing Network; ConGen Senen Mangalile, PCGNY; Ria Serrano, PACCAL;  and Ner Martinez, PinoyLife.net.  Lambert Parong

Lambert Parong

Lambert Parong

Photos by Lambert Parong/ Kababayan Media © 2024 All Rights Reserved.