PH Consulate General Hosts Kalayaan 2018 Reception in Chicago
Consul General in Chicago Gina A. Jamoralin delivers her welcome remarks at the start of the diplomatic reception held at the Kalayaan Hall on 14 June 2018. (Cornelio P. Santiago photos)
CHICAGO 28 June 2018 – The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago commemorated the 120th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence at the Kalayaan Hall of the Consulate General on 14 June 2018.
Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin led the diplomatic reception, which gathered representatives from the Filipino Community organizations, public institutions, business, and the consular corps.
Official proclamations from Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner called for the celebration of Philippine Independence Day as a special occasion to be observed all over the city and the state, in honor of the significant contributions of Filipino-Americans. Governor Rauner’s personal video greeting to the Filipino community in Illinois was also shown to the audience.
Special congratulatory messages from the Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan and Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs were likewise delivered by their respective community outreach coordinators.
Young singers Christiana Santiago and Rodell Rosel sang the Philippine and United States anthem, respectively.
Gracing the occasion was National Artist for Literature and National Commission for Culture and the Arts Chair Virgilio S. Almario.
Almario, in his speech, cited that the fundamental factor in commemorating this important event is a shared resolve to stay united and tackle challenges together. The NCCA Chair urged the audience to reflect what unity means, and to remember and honor with gratitude all those who sacrificed for us to enjoy our freedom today.
Consul General Jamoralin led a ceremonial toast with Illinois Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza and Consul General of El Salvador and Dean of Consular Corps Patricia M. Pittsford for a brighter, more prosperous Philippines, and enduring friendship between the two peoples. END
Consul General in Chicago Gina A. Jamoralin offers the traditional toast with Illinois Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza (left photo). Consul General of El Salvador and Dean of Consular Corps Patricia M. Pittsford (right), and National Commission on Culture and the Arts Chair Virgilio S. Almario (far right) served as guests of honor for the evening’s event. (Cornelio P. Santiago photos)
National Commission on Culture and the Arts Chair Virgilio S. Almario thanks Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin, and acknowledges the contribution of Filipino Americans for the growth and development of the many diverse communities within Illinois and the Midwest. (Cornelio P. Santiago photos)
For more information, visit www.chicagopcg.dfa.gov.ph; www.chicagopcg.com or https://www.facebook.com/PHinChicago.