03 October 2013 – The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, led by Deputy Consul General Daniel Espiritu, attended the Sixth Anniversary and Induction of Officers and New Members of the Maranaos in America for Peace, Integration and Advancement (MAPIA) held at the Community hall of the Filipino-American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) on September 29. He was accompanied by Cultural Officer, Ms. Wilma Bautista and Information Officer, Mr. Cesar Angeles.

The MAPIA was established in Burbank, California on September 02, 2007. This is the first Maranao organization created in the United States and North America. It was formed to help unite the Maranao community, forge a lasting relationship among its members and to advance Maranao culture and welfare through social and cultural activities, educational seminars, peace forums, networking and outreach.

MAPIA also aims to provide assistance to Maranaos back home, especially through the sponsorship of scholarship programs for bright but financially challenged Maranao youth. END