Assemblymember Steven Raga spearheads landmark 125th Philippine...

“This landmark celebration serves as evidence of the growing presence and influence of the Filipino American community in New York State,” Assemblymember Raga said, expressing the significance of the event. “We are not only commemorating our heritage but also celebrating our ongoing contributions to the cultural tapestry of this great state. It is a proud moment for all Filipino and Filipino Americans in New York State, and we eagerly anticipate further strengthening our community bonds.”

Assemblymember Grace Lee, Co-Chair of the New York State Asian Pacific American Task Force, who attended the event, expressed her support and dedication to the Filipino American community.

“It was an honor to join Assemblymember Steven Raga at the first-ever celebration of Philippine Independence Day held at the New York State Capitol in Albany,” Lee said. “New

York has been home to a vibrant Filipino community for over a century, and now, under the leadership of Assemblymember Raga, they have strong representation at the state level. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with my colleagues to uplift the needs of the Filipino American community.”

Raga recalled seeing other events at the capitol last year and realized that having one for the Filipino community would celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of Filipino culture but also highlight the remarkable contributions of Filipino Americans to the diverse cultural tapestry of the state.

“Throughout the year, in the spring, I’ve seen other cultures, other community members, and assembly members come in and have their own event with their Consul General and their community leaders and I said why not us?” Raga told the Asian Journal.

Raga then asked Consul General Senen Mangalile and various community leaders if they could collaborate and come up with this event to celebrate the unity, resilience, and unwavering commitment of the Filipino American community in New York

“Today, we remember Filipino heroes who fought for liberty against our colonial masters, but we also celebrate our current generation of heroes - our nurses, accountants, engineers, and entrepreneurs - who make positive contributions to the fabric of New York society,” Consul General said in his speech. will overcome challenges and achieve great heights. May we never lose our identity as we continue to showcase our capabilities to the world. We have found a home 8,500 miles away from home, where our Filipino Spirit will endure!”

Renowned dancers and foreign dignitaries from the Philippines, along with state-elected officials, including a representative from the office of U.S. Congressmember Paul Tonko, graced the occasion. Deputy Speaker of the New York State Assembly, Phil Ramos, delivered a group introduction on behalf of Assemblymember Raga and escorted all guests into the Assembly Speaker’s Room. Ramos talked about his almost month-long vacation in the Philippines last year and expressed support for Raga becoming the first Filipino member of the State Assembly, saying that there should be more minorities joining them.

According to Raga’s camp, the success of the event would not have

Atty. Sol Kapunan, Founding President of Kalayaan 1521 Council Inc, echoed the community’s sentiments and said, “In unity, there is strength. By coming together, we PAGE 4