17 October 2014 – Filipino-Americans in the Bay Area came together at the Asian Art Museum on October 05 for the opening of the Filipino American History Month celebration.  The festivity was organized by the Asian Art Museum in partnership with the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco and various Filipino-American community organizations such as the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS). 

This annual gathering celebrates and honors the history, pursuits, accomplishments and legacy of Filipinos in the United States. As this year’s theme, Tulay (bridge) suggests, the celebration hopes to bring together and present the experiences of multiple generations of Filipino-Americans. It also serves to provide a link between Filipinos in the US and Filipinos in the Philippines by showcasing their shared culture and heritage. 

In his remarks, Philippine Consul General Henry S. Bensurto, Jr. expressed the importance of historical information. He also referred to the individuals that are being celebrated this year as our very own tulay or bridges, as he stated “[they] not only link us to the past, but guide us towards our future paths.” The Consul General also thanked all those who have tirelessly worked to preserve the history of Filipinos. 

As a way to show the community’s appreciation, a certificate was presented by Dr. Azucena Arguelles of the San Francisco Manila Sister City Committee to Mr. Jay Xu, Executive Director of the Asian Art Museum, for the Museum’s commitment to and efforts in promoting Filipino-American history and culture. 

Throughout the day, guests at the Museum were given the opportunity to enjoy cultural presentations in the form of visual art, dance and music. The celebration also featured martial arts demonstrations, a book talk, and hands-on art activities. END