19 November 2013 - The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago successfully held a lunch-fundraiser for the benefit of the victims of typhoon Yolanda last November 15 at the Sunda New Asian Restaurant (Haiyan).  The co-owner of the restaurant, Filipino-American Billy Dec, together with Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim, co-hosted the event. 

Sunda Executive Chef Jess de Guzman and Executive Sous Chef Mike Morales, both Filipino-Americans themselves, created a special Filipino food menu for the luncheon, which lasted from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

Billy Dec, Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim and other members of the Filipino-American community in Chicagoland were on hand to provide updates and discuss the latest developments on the Philippines on the aftermath of the typhoon.

Members of the Filipino-American community as well as friends of the Philippines, including members from the Consular Corps of Chicago and Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, came in full force to show solidarity with the Filipino people. The restaurant was filled to capacity for the whole duration of the event.  The targeted amount of $20,000 was exceeded with proceeds from the luncheon and additional donations from the patrons totaling over $35,000.  All proceeds from the food sales as well as the additional donations would be given to the Philippine Red Cross. END