Sep 15

CELEBRATE THE 2020 FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH

CELEBRATE THE 2020 FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH

Chicago, Il. – In 2009, the US Congress thru the House of Senate and House of Representatives respectively passed H. Res. 780 recognizing October 2011 and every October thereafter as Filipino American History Month (FAHM) to celebrate the history and culture of Filipino Americans and their historic contributions to the Nation. Since 2011, Filipino American community groups in Chicago and suburbs have been working and partnering together to consolidate and promote the various events in celebration of FAHM every October. We would like to invite everyone to actively participate and support the celebration of the Filipino American History Month Celebrations in Chicago and the Midwest. The schedule of events/activities is listed below. Let us take pride in our Filipino heritage and history.  Let us come together and make every October celebration – a meaningful and memorable month. 

The Filipino American National Historical Society announces the following theme for the 2020 Filipino American History Month: The History of Filipino American Activism. We choose this theme to highlight the myriad ways Filipino Americans have participated in social justice movements, including but not limited to, the United Farmworkers Movement, the fight for Ethnic Studies, Hawaii Sugar Plantation strikes, Washington Yakima strikes, and Anti-Martial Law Movements across multiple decades. We honor the history of Filipino American solidarity with other communities in their fights for our equity and justice, including the Black Lives Matter Movement, American Indian Movement, Civil Rights and Voting Rights, Women’s Rights, LGBTQ Rights, and Environmental Justice. This year, we recognize the advocacy of our Filipino American healthcare workers who are actively protecting and fighting for our lives everyday amidst this global pandemic. We also acknowledge that 2020 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Filipino American Far West Convention in Seattle, whose overarching theme was EMERGENCE and is credited in part as the start of the Filipino American movement. 2020 also marks the 75th anniversary of The Battle of Luzon in the Philippines – one of the bloodiest battles of World War II; it is also the 90th anniversary of the Watsonville Riots of 1930- one which has been credited as an impetus for Farmworkers Rights.

We believe this theme is particularly crucial in 2020, as it is a key election year and we are living amidst a pandemic and mass movement towards racial justice. Thus, we encourage all of our chapters and communities to reflect on decades of Filipino American activism, in order to inspire and foster our civic responsibility in the Filipino American community.

FANHS also reminds everyone that the month is HISTORY month, not “Heritage” month. “History” encompasses the experiences and events that have shaped our lives, as well as culture and heritage.

FAHM planned events in 2020

All times are in Central Standard Time (in the United Sates)

Oct 1, Thursday to Oct 31, Saturday – 2nd Filipino Restaurant Week in Chicago. The event will run for the whole month of October. In celebration of the FAHM, the International Society of Filipinos in Finance and Accounting (ISFFA) and the Philippine Consulate of Chicago (PCG) invite you to support Filipino owned restaurants by limited dining in or take-out orders of Filipino food. Contact Jan Paul Ferrer [email protected], Paula Arnedo: [email protected].

Oct 1 Thursday to October 31 Saturday – Virtual Exhibits of Filipino artifacts, photographs and objects plus paintings and art works made by Filipino artists. Contact Laurence Anthonie Tumpag [email protected]

Oct 2, Friday at 4pm to 5pm – 2020 FAHM Celebration Kickoff. A welcome address from the Consul General Gina Jamoralin. Tito Ruben and Consul General will give awards to outstanding Filipino Americans and organizations who have been active participants and supporters of Filipino American activism in order to inspire and foster our civic responsibility in the Filipino American community. The FAHM proclamations from the State of Illinois and the City of Chicago will be read. Sponsor – Philippine Consulate General in Chicago and the Filipino American Historical Society of Chicago. Contact Noly Dulay [email protected] and Tito Ruben [email protected].

Oct 3, Saturday at 730pm – US Premiere screening of award winning movie EDWARD at the Davis Drive-In Theater (to ensure safe social distancing) in Chicago. Presented by Asian Pop-Up Cinema (Sophia’s Choice) in cooperation with FYLPRO, the screening is a fundraiser with all proceeds benefiting the Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO), a 501 C3 NFP of high performing, next-generation leaders that have a passion for advancing the Philippines and the Filipino people. Tickets are at $150 per car, with a max of 6 per Chicago reopening guidelines. Limited slots for 30 cars only. Everyone is encouraged to treat our Frontliners to EDWARD the movie! For tickets, trailer, drive-in FAQ and other info, go to www.asianpopupcinema.org/edward100320. Contact Lakhi Siap [email protected] or call 708-528-6321 – Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO).

Oct 8 Thursday at 7pm – Watch Filipino health care worker and singer/artist Emil Nicolasin sings the National Anthem at the Chicago Bears Game sponsored by Advocate Hospitals.

Oct 9 Friday – #FilipinoAmerican film “Yellow Rose” — starring Eva Noblezada, Princess Punzalan and Lea Salonga —  will be released in theaters on Oct. 9. Filipina American filmmaker Diane Paragas’ “Yellow Rose” tells a spellbinding story about an undocumented Filipina teenager Rose (Tony-nominated actress and singer Eva Noblezada) who fights to achieve her dream of becoming a country music star.

Oct 10 Saturday at 10 a.m. – “Songs of Peace and Justice – a children’s virtual music experience rooted in teaching our children songs that are rooted in our struggle for justice. This experience is suited for preschool aged children and their families but all are welcome to join us on Zoom for FAHM with the Filipino American National Historical Society of Chicago, Greater Chicago Chapter. Contact Clarissa Aljentera. To attend, Please register here https://forms.gle/hZFiPHfaTTdX2enu9 and a link for Zoom will be sent before the event .

Oct 12 Monday at 4:30 to 6:00pm. – Sayaw Tayo (Let’s Dance). Join DePaul’s KALAHI as they collaborate with Emilio and Alpha Nicolasin, hosts of Piyesta Pinoy in Chicago/Bolingbrook. They will discuss the histories of different genres of Filipino dance. We will also facilitate a workshop to teach/demonstrate some traditional dances, including Bagobo/Manobo dance!  Zoom ID: 941 2857 3503.

Oct 14 Wednesday at 12 Noon – Lunchtime Chat 1 – Stories of Filipino Activism and Heroism. This week’s topic is the history of activism in the Midwest and the organizing that went into domestic workers rights. In celebration of the FAHM, AFIRE, CIRCA Pintig and the Filipino American National Historical Society of Chicago Greater Chicago Chapter invite you to the weekly virtual podcast on Zoom every Wednesday at lunch time for three weeks. 10/14-10/28. Part of CIRCA Pintig’s Raising Voices: Stories from the Homefront virtual storytelling series, for more information visit: www.circapintig.org. Contact Ginger Leopoldo [email protected] and Kristina Tendilla [email protected]

Oct 21 Wednesday at 12 Noon – Lunchtime Chat 2 – Stories of Filipino Activism and Heroism. This week’s topic is to discuss and invite folks who are in the fight for ethnic studies with Dr. Anna Guevarra, Founding Director of Global Asian Studies at the University of Illinois Chicago. Part of CIRCA Pintig’s Raising Voices: Stories from the Homefront virtual storytelling series, for more information visit: www.circapintig.org. Contact Ginger Leopoldo [email protected].

Oct 24 Saturday at 3pm – Open MIC featuring Youth Voices. In celebration of the FAHM, the CIRCA Pintig and the Filipino American National Historical Society of Chicago Greater Chicago Chapter, and PACF invite high school and college students to showcase their songs, poems, spoken words, music, visual art and other artistic talents following the theme of History of Filipino American of Activism. For more information about competition details, visit: www.circapintig.org. Contact Ginger Leopoldo [email protected].

Oct 25 Sunday at 3pm – Honoring the Filipino American Pioneers – the Philippine American Foundation will host a virtual event to honor and present awards to some of the Filipino American pioneers who have displayed outstanding service to the community. This event will also include the launching of the documentary book, “The Making of the Jose Rizal Monument in Chicago” By Cornelio R. Natividad, C.E.; S.E & Evelyn de Asis Natividad, Ph.D. Contact Adeline Fajardo at [email protected] and Evelyn Natividad at [email protected].

Oct 28 Wednesday at 12 Noon – Lunchtime Chat 3 – Stories of Filipino Activism and Heroism. This week’s topic is the activism and the sharing of stories by the health care and essential workers during the pandemic. Guest panelists include Terrence Yee, former President of Illinois Nurses Association and Bryan Ranchero, Child Nurse Consultant at Public Health DHS Illinois. In celebration of the FAHM, AFIRE, CIRCA Pintig and the Filipino American National Historical Society of Chicago Greater Chicago Chapter invite you to the weekly virtual podcast on Zoom every Wednesday at lunch time for three weeks. 10/14-10/28. Part of CIRCA Pintig’s Raising Voices: Stories from the Homefront virtual storytelling series, for more information visit: www.circapintig.org. Contact Ginger Leopoldo [email protected].

Oct 28 Wednesday at 7:00pm – “Pulong ng Bayan” – An Update on Co-Curation – A town hall virtual meeting discussion on the co-curation project of the Field Museum in partnership with the Filipino community. Guest speakers include John Terrell, Regenstein Curator of Pacific Anthropology at the Field Museum of Chicago and Stephen Acabado, associate professor of anthropology at UCLA. Contact Jamie Kelly [email protected] and Tito Ruben [email protected]

Oct 30, Friday at 7pm– FAHM Closing Celebration and Lingua Franca Netflix Party, Movie Producer Jhett Tolentino, the Filipino Grammy and Oscar Award winner will be joining us in the discussion before and after the movie. Lingua Franca is a film that chronicles the struggles of an undocumented Filipina transwoman who tries to stay in the United States to get herself a green card. Sponsored by the Midwest Pilipino American Coalition (MPAC) and Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO). Contact LouellaCabalona at 708-528-6321 or [email protected] and Everett Icao at [email protected].

Jun 11

Piyesta Pinoy Donate a Meal – Feed the Frontliner

We all know that our fight against COVID-19 is far from over, therefore our goal for this year’s Piyesta Pinoy is leading towards the effort of making sure that our frontliners are well and healthy. At Home with Piyesta Pinoy 2020 launches this fundraiser “Donate a Meal – Feed the Frontliner” fund raising. The money that will be raised from June 12 to June 20, 2020 and will be used to provide meals to our frontliners at several hospitals, police stations, fire departments, etc. all over Illinois. We
have already started our efforts since the pandemic outbreak and we wish to continue this cause through Piyesta Pinoy.

Donations can be made by Paypal, click on the link below

Or Chase or Bank of America Quickpay or Zelle to Zelle ID [email protected]

As a simple form of our gratitude, all donors will be eligible to join our raffle. Prizes will be from our partners and sponsors at this year’s Piyesta Pinoy. Details of the prizes will be further explained on June 13 at our Facebook Live event. We look forward to continue feeding our frontliners through your continuous support for Piyesta Pinoy!

Raffle Mechanics:

  1. The Piyesta Pinoy Donate a Meal – Feed the Frontliner Fundraising will run from June 12, 2020 to June 19, 2020.
  2. The raffle promo is open to all who wants to make donations towards the cause by clicking this link*. Modes of payment include Paypal, QuickPay and Zelle.
  3. Contact information (phone and email address) will need to be provided by the donor. Once payment has been transferred, we will send you a raffle ticket number.
  4. Winners will be drawn by the Piyesta Pinoy raffle committee at the following dates:
    a. 1st Drawing June 13, 2020 between 1pm and 3pm during the Facebook Live Event
    b. 2nd Drawing June 20, 2020 between 1pm and 2pm during the Zoom event.
    Winners will be published in the Piyesta Pinoy FB web page as well.
  5. Winners will be notified by the Piyesta Pinoy raffle committee to claim their prizes within 60 days or will be declared void.
    Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.

How to Qualify:
Simply donate to Piyesta Pinoy Donate a Meal – Feed the Frontliner Fundraising.
All donations ($ 10 minimum) will qualify for 1 raffle ticket.
An additional raffle ticket will be given for every $20 increment.

For example:
A donates $10. A will receive 1 raffle ticket.
B donates $20. B will receive 2 raffle tickets.
C donates $40. C will receive 3 raffle tickets.
D donates $100. D will receive 6 raffle tickets.

Jun 04

Beginners Tagalog Class on Zoom starts June 15, 2020

The Philippine American Cultural Foundation and the Filipino American Historical Society of Chicago invite you to join
Balay Tagalog – Tagalog Class for Beginners
Class begins June 15 until July 3, 2020
What: Enter to Learn Basics of Tagalog while rekindling the Filipino in You. Tuloy po kayo.
When: Nine 50-minute Sessions for 3 weeks MWF. AM Session at 11am, PM session at 6pmWhere: Online using Zoom
Who: Target Participants 12 years and older
About the Volunteer Instructor – John Paul Dela Rosa

I was a Senior High School teacher at Tarlac National High School – Annex in Tarlac City, the Philippines, before I moved to the United States as a Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA). I am currently affiliated with Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL., and I assist the primary instructor of Tagalog in teaching different Tagalog language courses at NIU. Much of the work that we do are centered on designing Tagalog instructional materials and advising a student-run organization on campus, the Philippine Students Association (PSA).

As Fulbright FLTAs, we are also encouraged to connect to the community and share our languages and cultures. “We” because I am with four other FLTAs from SEA (Indonesia, Thailand, and Myanmar). Two of the most memorable community outreach activities that we did were the “Eight Countries, One Day” event held at the DeKalb Public Library last year and hosting language and cultural tables at Sycamore High School in Sycamore, IL. As regards studies, we are also required to take graduate level courses (for credit) at NIU. At present, I am taking a graduate level course on Research in Rhetoric and Professional Writing and one course on the Music of Southeast Asia.

I must say that my FLTA journey at NIU has been very fulfilling. Aside from sharing the Filipino culture and Tagalog as the country’s national language, it also gave me the opportunity to be more interculturally competent and understand other people like the Americans in general. Traveling and meeting other people from different cultural backgrounds make the journey more meaningful. Now that it’s nearing conclusion, and even if we are in very challenging times, I would still like to make my FLTA journey meaningful by leading a Tagalog language class online.

Limited number of students in each class. Please register as soon as you can.

To register – https://forms.gle/1R9fEn7adyNpMBNk7Cost – $90 Full class or $ 60 for studentsTo pay – send money to [email protected] via Chase Quick Pay, Zelle            – or by Paypal to [email protected]

May 29

PIYESTA PINOY GOES ONLINE ON ITS 7TH YEAR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Louella Cabalona
May 25, 2020 Mobile: 1(708)-528-6321
Email: [email protected]

BIGGEST PHILIPPINE PIYESTA IN THE MIDWEST GOES ONLINE ON ITS 7TH YEAR


In celebration of the 122nd independence celebration of the Philippines, the Midwest Pilipino American Coalition (MPAC) and the Philippine American Cultural Foundation (PACF), the organizers of this Piyesta Pinoy in Bolingbrook will host a virtual Philippines Fiesta with

“At Home with Piyesta Pinoy 2020:
An Online Tribute to Bayani Frontliners”
on Saturday June 13, 2020, 1pm to 3pm
Piyesta Pinoy FB Page https://www.facebook.com/PiyestaPinoy/

in partnership with Mora Asian Kitchen.
In support of social distancing measures, the annual event that hosts a power-packed 12- hour programming at the Bolingbrook Performing Arts Center will be condensed into a 2- hour online show of cultural performances, talent showcases, raffles and a special live cooking demonstration of Filipino cuisines hosted by Mora Asian Kitchen in Bolingrook, Bayan Ko Restaurant and Jennivee’s Bakery. Island flavor inspired cocktails will also be mixed by Tanduay Rum. A special celebrity guest is also slated to make an appearance at the online Piyesta.
Through the online show, the organizers hope to pay tribute to our front liners and honor the heroes who lost their lives in serving others. All proceeds gathered will go to Mora’s Donate a Free Meal to Essential Healthcare Workers.
“At Home with Piyesta Pinoy 2020: An Online Tribute to Bayani Frontliners” will be live on the Mora Asian Kitchen, Bolingbrook FB Page on Saturday, June 13, 2020 from 1pm to 3pm.
To keep posted on updates and happenings in the community subscribe to (like) our Piyesta Pinoy Facebook page. You can also visit us at chicagompac.org and pacfmidwest.org. If you have have a loved one who has lost their life to COVID, and you would like them to be included in our tribute, please email [email protected]
For developments on COVD-19 and what you can do to keep healthy and safe, visit the Centers for Disease Control at cdc.gov or your local health department’s website.

Apr 19

PACF and MORA thank ?????????? ????????????? for all you do

Please donate and share. WE are ALL in this TOGETHER!
We at the Philippine American Cultural Foundation – Midwest (PACF) and Piyesta Pinoy are happy to announce that we are partnering with Mora group of restaurants who are offering FREE MEALS to essential healthcare workers to thank them for their sacrifice and heroism. Here is a ???? ?? ????????? that we have donated meals to and Mora will matched our donation. Mora Asian Kitchen, Bolingbrook will ??????? ??? ??????? ????’? ????????? ???-????? ??????? ?? ???? ????????? :

• AMITA Health Adventist Medical Center Bolingbrook (4/21/2020 – Donating 15 Meals)
>AMITA St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet (4/25/2020) – Eric Calma, Anagreta Tonogbanua, Sahlee Songco and PACF Donating 30 Meals)
>Silver Cross Hospital New Lenox (4/26/2020 – Rj and Joanne Turija and Pyesta Pinoy (PACF) Philippine Fest Donating 30 Meals)
• AMITA Health Adventist Medical Center Hinsdale (4/28/2020 – Donating 25 Meals)
• AMITA Health Adventist Medical Center La Grange (4/29/2020 – Donating 25 Meals)
>St Bernard Hospital 326 W 64th St, Chicago, IL 60621 (5/14/2020 – Donations from Philippine American Cultural Foundation, Piyesta Pinoy, Everett Icao, Pia Natividad and Elsie Sy-Nievar,
>VA Hines Hospital Donations from Piyesta Pinoy Fund Raiser (7/22/20 – Donating 30 meals)

??? ????? ?????? we donate, ???? ???? ????? ??? ????????

Here’s how you can help! ??? ?????? ? ???? ??? ?????????? ??????? ??? MORA will ????? ???? ????????! ?? Mora Restaurant Group wanted to do something for the #RealHeroes risking their all on the frontlines! ❤️ We’re launching a new Gofundme ???? ?? ???? ?????????? ????????????? (http://gf.me/u/xv63hq). ??‍⚕️??‍⚕️??‍⚕️ ??? ????? ?????? ??????, ???? ???? ????? ???? ????????, ??????? ??? ??????? ????’? ????????? ???-????? ??????? ?? ???? ?????????

Mar 26

Piyesta Pinoy 06/13/20 POSTPONED

OFFICIAL STATEMENT REGARDING COVID-19

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 26, 2020

To Piyesta Pinoy sponsors, partners, vendors, performers, volunteers and attendees,

First and foremost, our hearts go out to all who have been affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and we are deeply grateful to the thousands of healthcare workers, many a part of the Filipino American community, who are on the front lines helping those most vulnerable.

As the 7th Piyesta Pinoy announcement is upon us, the Philippine American Cultural Foundation (PACF) and the Midwest Pilipino American Coalition (MPAC), the organizers of this year’s Piyesta Pinoy, acknowledge and share the public’s concerns about protecting against the spread of COVID-19. The safety and health of staff, volunteers, media and the community is top priority for us.

Out of an abundance of caution and in cognizance of the unpredictability of the situation, the Board of Directors made the difficult decision to postpone Piyesta Pinoy this June to be rescheduled at a later date.

We are closely monitoring the situation and we are hopeful that we can resume our regular programming later in the year especially in time for Filipino American History Month in October and the Holiday season.

In the meantime, you can keep posted on updates and happenings in the community by subscribing to (liking) our Piyesta Pinoy Facebook page. You can also visit us at chicagompac.org and pacfmidwest.org. For more information about COVD-19 and what you can do to keep healthy and safe, visit the Centers for Disease Control at cdc.gov or your local health department’s website.

On behalf of all of us, thank you for being a part of Piyesta Pinoy and take care and please stay safe!

Taos-pusong sumasainyo (Sincerely yours),

Piyesta Pinoy (Philippine Festival) 2020 Steering Committee

Midwest Pilipino American Coalition Executive Committee & Board Members

Philippine-American Cultural Foundation Executive Committee & Board Members

Mar 19

Support local Filipino restaurants during pandemic

With people being encouraged to stay home and away from crowds and restaurants in  Illinois being ordered to serve takeout or delivery only, the restaurant industry has been among the hardest hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

With restaurants facing an uncertain immediate future, one way we can support our kababayans who own and operate our favorite restaurants is by ordering food to takeout for pickup or delivery without having to leave home. For restaurant delivery- recommend DoorDash, UberEats, GrubHub or their local delivery.

Here’s a growing list of restaurants and other food businesses that offer takeout pickup and/or delivery. Do you know any other Filipino owned restaurants or food businesses that offer takeout? Email [email protected] and we’ll add them to our list.

Let us support the smaller businesses that are hurting during this corona virus pandemic. We all love Filipino food and many of the restaurants offer a variety of our favorite food and they are very good and at reasonable prices. They have helped us in the past. Now it is our turn to help them. Thy need our help now; we want them to continue to survive. Some restaurants might have specials too. Thank you.

Bacolod Chicken Haus
BUY ONE GET ONE chicken Inasal“BOGO” starting at 12noon to 4pm Daily . Close on Tuesday ……. tell your friends and family….. call now 773-747-8282

Chicken Ati-Atihan
Take Out & Delivery Only
9054 W Golf Rd, Niles, IL
+1 847-699-3113

Hong Ning Filipino Restaurant & Grill
open for takeout or pick up orders via phone
call 630-480-2688.

Isla. Filipino. Restaurant. 
Last Chance for Isla Pilipina Food before the store closes on March 31. !!! Take out orders only. Call (773) 271-2988.

Lina’s Filipino Marketplace
Open for takeout and orders pickup
Call (224) 520-8150

Lola Tining’s Cuisine
1141 Garfield St, Oak Park, IL
+1 708-616-8000

Max’s Restaurant Chicago
Curbside Pickup & Delivery
Call (773)830-6297

Meat on the Street
1125 N. 9th St.Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Call ahead (414) 477-6717
? Delivery service through Postmates or UberEats

Mora Asian Kitchen, Bolingbrook, Plainfield and Oak Park
Curbside Pick-up
Call (630) 410-8043 to place your order.
You’ll be given directions on where to pick up your order from. 

Seafood City Chicago – Grill City, Crispy Town and Noodle Street
Call & Pickup (773)295-1658
online order thru http://www.grillcity.com/
or thru Doordash, Grubhub or Ubereats

South Sea Asian Carry Out, Inc
451 W Boughton RdBolingbrook, Illinois
PICK UP/CARRY OUT only
Call (630) 226-5707

SUBO Filipino Kitchen
Open for Pick-ups and delivery
Call (773) 478-2599
online order thru http://www.3rcafe.com/
or thru Doordash, Grubhub or Ubereats

Oct 18

Journey for Justice – the Life of Larry Itliong

Journey for Justice – the Life of Larry Itliong

Chicago, Il. – The celebration of the Filipino American History Month in the greater Chicago area is continuing throughout the month of October. Last week, it was huge success for the three events and 3x the power for the Journey for Justice book tour Chicago stop. The book written by the late Dr. Dawn Bohulano Mabalon and co-author Gayle Romasanta who came to sign the books, is the first children’s/youth book about the story of Filipino American labor organizer Larry Itliong pioneering efforts who led the famous Delano Grape with fellow manongs like Philip Vera Cruz and led the alliance with the Mexican farm workers under Cesar Chavez to become the UFW. 

The first book launch event was at the historic Jane Addams Hull-House Museum where over a hundred people packed the museum to welcome Gayle Romasanta who travelled to Chicago from Sacramento, California. The event is also part of the month-long celebration of different cultures and heritage called Inherit Chicago, organized by the Chicago Cultural Alliance. The welcome remarks were given by Ross Jordan from the Hull-House, Vanessa Vergara from the Chicago Cultural Alliance and Estrella Alamar from the Filipino American Historical Society of Chicago. A stage reading of the story of the life of Larry Itliong was performed by the CIRCA Pintig theater group led by Larry Leopoldo. The evening was capped by an amazing performance by the FIA’liwan choral group from the University of Illinois Filipinos in Alliance group and the closing remarks given by Anna Guevarra of the UIC Global Asian Studies.

The next day, the book launch travelled to the northside, the morning event was held at the Seafood City/Elston Market Mix community room. The welcome remark was made by Consul Ryan Gener of the Philippine Consulate in Chicago followed by remarks from our event partners – AFIRE, FALA represented by Mark Calaguas. Musical entertainment was provided by the Chicago Angklung Rondalla Ensemble, the dance group of the Philippine American Seniors Association of Chicago and the musical band called Virtual Session Band. The stage reading of the life of Larry Itliong was also performed led by Levi Aliposa  as Larry Itliong. In addition to the performances, we also have art works display from Paul Balan, photographs display from Neil Reyes and historical photos on display curated by Anthony Tumpag,

The afternoon event was held at the Budlong Woods Chicago Public Library where another full house crowd gathered to learn about the story of Larry Itliong. Here, the welcome remark was given by Tom Stark, the CPL Branch Manager. A couple of cultural dances was performed by Gabi Delson of the PACF Performing Arts. The stage reading of the life of Larry Itliong was also performed led by JP Jael as Larry Itliong.

In the end, the previously untold story of Larry Itliong has now been told here in Chicago thru the book Journey for Justice and thru the many attendees of the 3 book launch events. Over 70 copies of the books have been sold and at least 5 books have been donated to the public libraries. FANHS Chicago chapter will continue to sell more copies of the book and sponsors fund raiser to be able to donate more book to libraries all over the greater Chicago area.

The book launch event could not have been possible without the support, donation and help from all our sponsors, partners, performers and volunteers. Special mention to the Chicago Cultural Alliance for the generous grant, to the Jane Addams Hull House, Seafood City of Chicago and the Budlong Woods Chicago public library for hosting and providing the venues for free. Special shot outs to our emcees – Ginger Leopoldo, Joy Sales and Everett Icao and all the stage readers, singers, dancers, musicians for their awesome performances. Last but not the least, we are so grateful to have Gayle Romasanta for being with us in person and for the late Dr. Dawn Bohulano Mabalon for writing the book Journey for Justice which will forever be treasured to honor and recognize the contributions of Larry Itliong and all the manongs who fought for justice. #FAHM2019

Aug 28

CELEBRATE THE 2019 FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH

CELEBRATE THE 2019 FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH

Chicago, Il. – In 2009, the US Congress thru the House of Senate and House of Representatives respectively passed H. Res. 780 recognizing October 2011 and every October thereafter as Filipino American History Month (FAHM) to celebrate the history and culture of Filipino Americans and their historic contributions to the Nation. Starting in 2011, the Philippine American Cultural Foundation (PACF) spearheaded an invitation to many Filipino American organizations in Chicago and suburbs to organize a variety of events to celebrate FAHM every October.  Since 2011, Filipino American community groups in Chicago and suburbs have been working and partnering together to consolidate and promote the various events in celebration of FAHM every October. We would like to invite everyone to actively participate and support the celebration of the Filipino American History Month Celebrations in Chicago and the Midwest. The schedule of events/activities is listed below. Let us take pride of our Filipino heritage and history.  Let us come together and make every October celebration – a meaningful and memorable month. 

The Filipino American National Historical Society announces the following theme for the 2019 Filipino American History Month: Pinay Visionaries – Celebrating Filipina American Women. 

We will be honoring Filipino American women Pinays, the backbone of the Filipino American community. We will be celebrating women like Dorothy Cordova, FANHS founder and director and the late Dawn Bohulano Mabalon, a passionate activist who dedicated her life to chronicling the rich Filipino-American history in California and the U.S.

FANHS also reminds everyone that the month is HISTORY month, not “Heritage” month. “History” encompasses the experiences and events that have shaped our lives, as well as culture and heritage.

FAHM planned events in 2019

Oct 3, Thurssday at 6pm to 7pm – 2019 FAHM Celebration Kickoff at Alliance Française de Chicago, 810 N Dearborn St Chicago, IL. Sponsor – Philippine Consulate General in Chicago and the Filipino Community. Contact Noly Dulay [email protected] and Tito Ruben [email protected].

Oct 3, Thursday at 7pm to 10:30pm – Film showing of award winning movie Signal Rock Movie,  in cooperation with Asian Pop-Up Cinema by Sophia’s Choice at Alliance Française de Chicago, 810 N Dearborn St Chicago, IL. Contact Louella Cabalona [email protected]. Sponsor – Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO).

Oct 4, Friday,1:45pm – 3:15pm – 21st Annual Conference on Illinois History Panel session on “Stories of Im/Migration: Chicago” Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum 212 N 6th St, Springfield, IL. Contact Laurence Anthonie Tumpag [email protected]

Oct 6, Sunday to Oct 21, Monday – 1st Filipino Restaurant Week in Chicago. The event will run for two weeks. 10/6-10/21.   In celebration of the FAHM, the International Society of Filipinos in Finance and Accounting (ISFFA) and the Philippine Consulate of Chicago (PCG) invite you to the launch of the first ever Filipino Restaurant Week in Chicago at SX Sky Bar (808 S Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL) on October 6, 2019 (Sunday) from 1:00-4:00PM. Contact Jan Paul Ferrer [email protected], Paula Arnedo: [email protected].

Oct 6, 20, 27 Sundays, 2pm to 4:30pm – Parol making at St. Gregory Social Hall, lower level of Gym building Address:1609 W. Gregory St. Chicago, IL 60640 (corner Ashland Avenue, south of Bryn Mawr). Parking is Free. Workshop Free to Participants.Sponsor – Filipinos of St. Gregory. Contact – Susan Silvano Email: [email protected] and Butch Odulio Email: [email protected] 

Oct 8, Tuesday at 6pm – Film showing of the movie Miss Granny. Signal Rock movie ticket holders are eligible to claim reserved seats for a free-admission-first-come-first-served Filipino film, Miss Granny starring Sarah Geronimo on Tuesday Oct 8 at 6pm at the Harold Washington Public Library. Contact Louella Cabalona [email protected]. Sponsor – Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO).

Oct 10, Thursday at 6:30pm – Southeast Asian Film Festival Day 1 at DePaul CDM Theatre 14 E. Jackson Blvd, LL105 Chicago, IL 60604. A diverse program of short films by established and emerging Southeast Asian filmmakers, including the following short films from the Philippines – “Jodilerks Defa Cruz, Employee of the Month” Directed by Carlo Francisco. Contact Noly Dulay [email protected] or Tito Ruben at [email protected].

Oct 11, Friday, 5pm to 8pm – Journey for Justice: Untold Filipino-American History at Jane Addams Hull-House Museum 800 S Halsted St, Chicago, Illinois 60607. Meet the co-author of Journey for Justice: The Life of Larry Itliong, Gayle Romasanta in this social justice driven family program. Contact Tito Ruben [email protected]. Sponsor – Chicago Cultural Alliance, CIRCA/Pintig, Jane Addams Hull-House Museum, UIC Global Asian Studies, FANHS Greater Chicago Chapter and Filipino American Historical Society of Chicago

Oct 11, Friday at 6:30pm – Southeast Asian Film Festival Day 2 at 5027 N Broadway St, 3rd Floor Chicago, IL. A diverse program of short films by established and emerging Southeast Asian filmmakers, including the following short film from the Philippines –“Baguio Address No. 10” Directed by Mervine Aquino Contact Noly Dulay [email protected] or Tito Ruben at [email protected].

Oct 12, Saturday, 9am to 12noon – FAHM Celebration plus Journey for Justice Book Launch at Seafood City Chicago Elston Market Mix. Contact Tito Ruben [email protected]. Sponsor – FANHS Greater Chicago Chapter, Seafood City Chicago, AFIRE, APALA, CIRCA/Pintig, FALA, Centro de Trabaderos Unidos and Kabataan Alliance.

Oct 12, Saturday, 1pm to 4pm – Journey for Justice: Untold Filipino-American History at Budlong Chicago Public Library  5630 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60659. Contact Tito Ruben [email protected]. Sponsor – Chicago Cultural Alliance, Chicago Public Library, CIRCA/Pintig FAHSC, FANHS Greater Chicago Chapter,  and Philippine American Cultural Foundation.

Oct 12, Saturday, Time and Place TBA – Carbo-Loading,meet and greet the Filipino and Filipino American runners participating at the Chicago Marathon. Contact Jan Paul Ferrer [email protected]. Sponsor – International Society of Filipinos in Finance in Accounting (ISFFA).

Oct 12, Saturday at 6:30pm – Southeast Asian Film Festival Day 3 at 5027 N Broadway St, 3rd Floor Chicago, IL. A diverse program of short films by established and emerging Southeast Asian filmmakers, including the following short film from the Philippines –“ WE STILL HAVE TO CLOSE OUR EYES” , Directed by JOHN TORRES. Contact Noly Dulay [email protected] or Tito Ruben at [email protected].

Oct 13, Sunday, 7am to Noon – Cheer the Filipino and Filipino American runners participating at the Chicago Marathon. We invite the community to cheer the runners at various locations in the route of the marathon. Contact Tito Ruben [email protected] and Malou Tabo [email protected]. Sponsor – Philippine American Cultural Foundation and Joy Dance Club.

Oct 19, Saturday, 2pm to 5pm – Indigenous Dance Celebration at Trickster Art Gallery | 190 South Roselle Rd. Schaumburg, IL . Celebrate traditional dances and enjoy the beautiful regalia from the native communities of the Trickster Art Gallery, along with other ingenious dancers from the Filipino, Japanese, Aztec and Maori communities. Contact Tito Ruben [email protected]. Sponsor – Filipino American Historical Society of Chicago, BIBBAK, IL 

Oct 20, Sunday, 2pm to 4pm –Multi-talent presentation for Youth, Parol making for use at our 25th Simbang Gabi at St Isaac Jogues Parish 8149 Golf Rd, Niles, IL. Sponsor – NAFFAA and FANHS Midwest, Contact – Jelly Carandang [email protected].

Oct 20, Sunday, 2pm to 4pm – Fil Am History Month Mass at SMDP Catholic Church, Mundelein Illinois 116 N Lake St, Mundelein, IL. Contact Carmen Garcia [email protected]. Sponsor – Fil-Am Group of Mundelein.

Oct 20, Sunday, 4:30pm to 6:30pm – FAHM Festival at 2184 N Elston, Chicago, Illinois 60614 There will be interactive and educational opportunities for the whole family! Hosted by Bubbles Academy

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Oct 27, Sunday, 1pm to 4pm – Filipino Restaurant Week block party at Mora Asian Kitchen in Bolingbrook, IL. Contact Jan Paul Ferrer [email protected] and Paula Arnedo  [email protected]. Sponsor – International Society of Filipinos in Finance in Accounting (ISFFA).

Oct 27, Sunday, 1pm to 4pm – FAHM Celebration and Film Showing of Call Her Ganda at Indian Prairie Public Library 401 Plainfield Rd, Darien, IL 60561. Contact Luis Ferrer [email protected]. Sponsor – Filipino American Association of South Du Page.

Nov 9, Saturday –Chicago Filipino Asian American Hall of Fame 2019 Silver Anniversary & Grand Reunion at Hyatt Regency O’Hare. This Gala includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, dinner, a formal Awards program, and dancing! Contact Veronica Leighton [email protected].

Jul 09

6th Piyesta Pinoy was a huge success, the best ever!

Bolingbrook, IL — One of Chicagoland’s biggest celebrations of the Philippine culture returned to Bolingbrook for the 6th year on Saturday, June 8, 2019 and it was a huge success. An estimated crowd of about 7,000 to 8,000 came to join the Piyesta that was blessed with a sunny to partly sunny weather in the 70’s most of the day in spite of the light rain that passed thru quickly during the celebrity hour. A huge crowd came as early as the opening at 11am to join and watch the opening parade of costumes followed by the cultural segment of the program. The crowd grew even more in time for the GMA celebrity hour featuring the 2013 Miss World Megan Young. The weather cooled off later in the evening that brought in the party crowd in time for the dance party that featured DJ music, Zumba and two bands that provided dance music the rest of the evening.

“Happy Fiesta to all guests, performers, vendors, sponsors and organizers who have made the 6th Piyesta Pinoy another successful celebration of the Filipino cultural heritage deep in the heart of U.S. Midwest” greeted Consul General Ginal Jamoralin.

This year’s festival started with the Piyesta Pinoy Gawad Kalinga 5K Family Walk. It was a nice way to start the day of festival as walkers and friends gather to do Zumba and stretch exercises just before the walk. Our appreciation to the runners, walkers, advocates, volunteers, friends and donors in support of Gawad Kalinga and Piyesta Pinoy.

As in the previous years, the biggest crowd came during the GMA celebrity hour. Many thanks to GMA Pinoy TV for bringing celebrity actress/singer and 2013 Miss World Megan Young who wowed the crowd with local celebrities Jay Espano, Hill Ford and Father Sunny.

Congratulations to the 2019 Piyesta Pinoy Raffle Winners!! Raffle Ticket Winners

  • 1st Prize: ERIC DIZON  – One economy class Round Trip to the Philippines donated by Eva Air
  • 2nd Prize: JOEY DOMINGO – SALADMASTER Cookware
  • 3rd Prize: JINKY BASTES- BURNS – LBC Gift Certificate
  • Consolation Prize: TRISA GARCIA -1 Fire HD Amazon Tablet donated by World Remit

Festival organizers, the Philippine American Cultural Foundation and the Filipino American Historical Society of Chicago, would like to thank our organizing partners and hosts – the Philippine Consulate General of Chicago and the Village of Bolingbrook, Gawad Kalinga and the Filipino Friendship Society. We also would like to thank our sponsors for their donations and continued support: Platinum Sponsors – GMA Pinoy TV, Three Horses Jasmin Rice and Ramar Foods; Gold Sponsors – Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and Seafood City; Silver Sponsors – Aledli Home Health Care, Ayala Land, Creative Imprints Plus, Eva Air, LBC, Mega World, Mora Asian Kitchen, Signature Event Designs and World Remit; Bronze Sponsors – Countryside Bank, Cruise Planners, First Student, Futurity First, Globe, Global Cargo Movers, Lumo Xchange, Nena Cosmetics and Sea Express ; Donors – Amita Health, Asian Funeral Services, The Drip, Fiesta Market, Galloping Ghosts Arcade, Nicor Gas and Rainbow Systems. Maraming salamat to Bolingbrook Bugle, MegaScene, PINOY News, and VIA Times/CPR TV for local media sponsorship.

Maraming salamat to Frank Alvarez – Hermano Mayor, Gloria De Guzman – Hermana Mayor, Hermano  Gilbert  Bermundo, & Hermana Geraldine Gaden, Ninongs & Ninangs Bernie & Ricky Eusebio, Joe Mauricio, Veronica Leighton, Mariano  Santos, Merlinda Santos, Bart Tubalinal, Yoly Tubalinal, Ed Hernaez, MD,  Nida Hernaez, MD, Gloria  Simon,  Amador Acosta, MD, Zenaida Acosta, Zosimo Herrera, MD., Maria Gaddi-Herrera, MD., Douglas Tayengco  and Teresita Tayengo

Maraming salamat to our food vendors Boba Bar Co, Lina’s Filipino Market, Mabuhay Restaurant, Manila Fiesta, Ramar Foods, Seafood City, and the concession stand at the venue, Bolingbrook Performing Arts Center. 

Maraming salamat to our amazing performers: National anthem singers Emil Nicolasin and Raciel Alexis Millan; Cultural and Zarzuela  performers – BIBBAK Illinois, Chicago Angklung and Rondalla Ensemble, CIRCA/Pintig, HFCC Kasayahan Cultural Household of Faith Christian Church Kasayahan Cultural Group, Kulturo, PACF Performing Arts, UIC FIA Cultural,  Lane Tech Kapamilya Habang Buhay, Pilipino American Seniors of Chicago (PASAC) and Silayan Choir; Variety segment performers – The Barkadas, Chris Valera The Angry Piano, Dahlia Jane Ilada, James and Jannae Agena, Katipunan Martial Arts Collaboration, MJ Sumila and Ukulenny Lenny San Jose; DJ  Rex and DJ Kid Kris of Mode Events; Zumba instructor Julie Azarcon; Musical Bands – Lucidblur, Samasama Project, Gr00ve Time Band and No Limits Band; and Emcees – Alpha & Emil Nicolasin and James Delacruz. 

Maraming salamat to all our not-for-profit partners and cultural tent participants –  BIBBAK IL, Bolingbrook Park District, Chicago Suburban Christian Church, CIRCA Pintig, Couples for Christ Foundation for Family and Life (CFC-FFL), Derong Brothers, Elisha Marie Glover, Filipino American Association of South Dupage, Filipino American Community Health Initiative of Chicago (FACHIC), Filipino American Lawyers Association (FALA), Filipino American Historical Society Chicago (FAHSC), Filipinx Cultural Workers of Chicago, Filipino Kali Eskrima Academy of Chicago, Filipino Friendship Society, Fred DeAsis, Galloping Ghost Arcade with Jax, Gawad Kalinga , International Society of Filipinos in Finance and Accounting (ISFFA), FYLPRO, HFCC Kasayahan Cultural Group of Chicago, Jeepney Games, Julie Azarcon, Kampilan Eskrima, Legion of Mary, Maktan Chicago & Taboada Balintawak, Migrante Chicago, National Federation of Filipino American Association, PACF Performing Arts, Philippine Engineers and Scientists Organization (PESO), Pekiti-Tirsia Kalirungan, Southwest Suburban Immigrant Project, St John Paul II Parish in Kankakee & Santacruzan, Taboada Balintawak / Maktan FMA and World Martial Arts Academy USA, TRUE Empower, Inc and University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC).

Maraming salamat to the 2019 Piyesta Pinoy Planning Committee who worked very hard since last year to make this year’s festival a huge success.: Overall Chair Cindy Lopez and Ruben Salazar,  PACF President Adeline Fajardo, Rae Joyce Baguilat, Romy & Tita Balcita,  Daniel Boyle, Imelda Cuevo, James Delacruz, Jason Dela Rosa and the Photo/Videographers Team, Michelle Delson,  Allen Desiderio and the Security Team, Jan Paul Ferrer, Everett Icao, Cindy Lopez, Trista Maltizo, Anna Gina Millan, Pia Natividad, Evelyn Natividad, Alpha & Emil Nicolasin,  Camille Ortega, Marie, Joanna Ramos, Joy Ranay, Abegail Rodriguez, Merle Salazar, Bryan Ranchero and the Philippine Nurses Association of Illinois and all the First Aid Team.  Thank you to all our volunteers and unsung heroes and please excuse us for not listing all your names. The successful operation of each area from the planning committee to communications, raffles, stage performances, volunteers, cultural activities, delicious food, vendors, sponsors, partners, first aid, and others made this celebration truly enjoyable and… the best ever.  It would not be humanly possible to orchestrate such efficient and meaningful activities without all your help. 

Lastly, maraming salamat to all our kababayans, families and friends who had attended this year’s festival! We hope to see you again next year! We hope that you will continue to join activities that promote our cultural heritage, traditions and pride as a Filipino American community.  Looking forward to your involvement and participation in our next Filipino community event.  MABUHAY!