29 April 2014 - The Philippine Consulate General in Chicago informed  the Department, the Filipino-American community, and the general public that Mr. Billy Dec, a Filipino-American from Chicago, was among the 14 new White House appointees to the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) on April 24.

As Commissioners, they will serve as the eyes and ears of the AAPI Community for the Obama Administration.  The Commission is charged with working to improve the quality of life of AAPIs through increased participation and access to federal programs. These members will advise the President on innovative ways to engage AAPIs across the country and to improve their health, education, environment, and well-being. 

Billy Dec is the CEO and Founder of Rockit Ranch Productions, a hospitality and entertainment development company in Chicago, a position he has held since 2002.  He is also involved in several philanthropic organizations, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Lookingglass Theatre Company, and Maggie Daley’s After School Matters.  Last year, he co-hosted a successful fundraising event at Sunda New Asian Restaurant to benefit the victims of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in the Philippines. 

The Commissioners’ swearing-in ceremony will take place during the AAPI Heritage Month Opening Ceremony on 6 May 2014 at 9:00 a.m. ET in Washington DC. END