05 May 2015 - Aiming to “educate, awaken, and empower,” The Filipino School in San Diego, California held its grand opening on April 26, with Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. leading the many dignitaries who witnessed the occasion.

“I am a firm believer in the importance of education, which fortunately is a value many Filipinos hold dear. This has contributed to the success that Filipino Americans have achieved in this country, as evidenced by data that show that they have higher-than-average incomes and educational attainment,” Ambassador Cuisia said in his remarks.

The Filipino School was the brainchild of California businessman and philanthropist Tony Olaes. The Ambassador lauded Mr. Olaes for the latter’s boundless passion and dedication to serve the Filipino-American community.

“Tony has been supportive of the Philippine Embassy and Consulates General here in the US. In particular, he shares the same passion of mine in tapping the dynamism of second and third generation Filipino-Americans in advancing our interests,” the Ambassador noted.

The Filipino School’s innovative curriculum is designed to provide the students with the tools to strengthen their connection with their roots.

“It is my wish that other communities in the US follow suit and establish similar schools of their own. We are an ethnic group that is more than three million strong with huge potential to further impact American society. These institutions would serve to enhance the appreciation of our culture, and help forge stronger people-to-people ties under the ambit of soft power diplomacy,” Ambassador Cuisia concluded.

Joining Ambassador Cuisia and Mr. Olaes in the opening ceremonies were Philippine Consul General in Los Angeles Leo M. Herrera-Lim, Philippine Honorary Consul in San Diego Audie de Castro, US Congressman Scott Peters, Philippine-born California Assemblyman Rob Bonta, Assemblyman Lorena Gonzales, San Diego Councilman Chris Cate and San Diego Board Supervisor Dave Roberts.  END