06 October 2016 — The Los Angeles City Council, led by Councilmembers Mitch O’Farrell and Gil Cedillo, honored the Filipino-American community in Los Angeles by presenting a Resolution proclaiming October 2016 as Filipino-American History Month. The Resolution was issued on September 30 at the John Ferraro Council Chamber of the City Hall of Los Angeles. Philippine Consul General to Los Angeles Adelio Angelito Cruz, Mr. Mel Orpilla and Ms. Rea Lazo, President of the Los Angeles Filipino Association of City Employees (LAFACE), accepted the resolution in behalf of the Filipino-American community in Los Angeles.

Members of the City Council praised the Filipino-American community for its achievements and contributions with its 429 years of historical presence in the United States dating back to the year 1587, when the Manila-built galleon ship “Nuestra Seňora de Esperanza” landed at Morro Bay, California transported the first Filipinos to the United States.

The declaration of Filipino-American History Month in Los Angeles serves to honor the unique relationship that the Philippines has with the U.S. This recognition is significant as it highlights the efforts of the thousands of Filipinos working in the Greater Los Angeles Area, and particularly in the City Hall.

The City Council also recognized several Filipino-Americans including Ms. Gina Alexander, Mr. Rembrandt Flores, Ms. Ruby De Vera, the owners of Parks Finest and officers of Filipino-American Arts for their achievements and contributions to the betterment of the community.

Honorees spoke highly of Filipino labor leaders such as Larry Itliong, Philip Vera Cruz, and a large group of Filipino farm workers who played a pivotal role in the Delano Grape Strike of 1965, which led to the formation of the United Farm Workers Movement.

A short program was held after the presentation of the resolution. END