01 October 2013 - In a hall filled with eager students, parents, relatives, friends, Filipino-American community leaders and supporters, Eskwela Natin held its first batch of graduates in Sacramento last September 22.  

Thirty-six (36) Filipino-American  children ranging in age from 5 to 12 years old  received Certificates of Achievement  after attending 10, two-hour sessions held every other Sunday since May 2013  that covered subjects such as  language, history, geography, culture, tradition, arts, music, cuisine and sports. Part of the program included native dance and song performances heartfully rendered by the students. 

Eskwela Natin was established by Sacramento Filipino-American community leaders led by Dolores and Perry Diaz in May 2013 as a result of the shared aspiration to have Filipino-American children, connect with and appreciate their ethnic heritage and its rich culture and traditions. The futile search for a Filipino school that would serve this purpose resulted to their formation of Eskwela Natin, The group formalized Eskwela Natin on their second meeting and elected the officers and members of the Board of Directors. Consul General Marciano A. Paynor Jr. assisted by Appointments Secretary Mona Pasquil of the Governor’s Office, former Mayor Ruth Asmundson of the City of Davis, and retired Ambassador George Aducayen Jr. cut the ceremonial ribbon to open Eskwela Natin last May 19.

The Philippine Consulate General supports  Eskwela Natin in its mission to educate Filipino-American children about the  rich and diverse Filipino culture, ensuring the unique traditions of the Philippines are passed on to the next generation, in a safe and fun environment.  END