PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

Paramus, NJ Celebrates First Filipino American Heritage Month with Official Proclamation Consul General Senen T. Mangalile (center, holding the proclamation) joins members of the Filipino-American community at the first-ever celebration of Filipino-American Heritage Month in Paramus, New Jersey. (Photo by Mr. Denis Niland) NEW JERSEY, 15 October 2024 – The Borough of Paramus, New Jersey, officially declared October as Filipino American Heritage Month during a ceremony at the Borough Hall. This marks the first time that Filipino-American history and the contributions of the Filipino community have been formally acknowledged in Paramus.Mayor Christopher DiPiazza issued the proclamation, highlighting the significant impact of Filipino-Americans across various fields, including culture, business, healthcare, and public service. It also honors their rich history and legacy while encouraging all Paramus residents to foster unity and cultural understanding.Councilmembers Alfredo Nadera and Ace Antonio, who are both of Filipino descent, championed this recognition. Councilman Nadera noted that about 2,000 Filipino-Americans live in Paramus, which accounts for a substantial portion of the borough's 26,000 residents. The proclamation emphasizes the spirit of unity, cultural understanding, and the role of Filipino-Americans in enriching the diversity of Paramus. In his remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile thanked Mayor DiPiazza and the Paramus…

Major Floren Herrera Becomes First Filipino To Receive West Point’s Nininger Award For Valor at Arms Major Floren Herrera, recognized for his exceptional leadership and valor during the Marawi conflict, receives the Alexander R. Nininger Award for Valor at Arms, presented by Lieutenant General Steven Gilland (behind Major Herrera) and Colonel Mark D. Bieger (left) at West Point, New York. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas) NEW YORK CITY, 11 October 2024 – Major Floren P. Herrera made history as the first Filipino and non-American to receive the prestigious Alexander R. Nininger Award for Valor at Arms, conferred by the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point. Major Herrera, currently serving in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), has gained recognition for his leadership in critical counterterrorism operations.A graduate of West Point in 2013, Major Herrera was honored for his bravery and leadership during the five-month Battle of Marawi in 2017, where he led his platoon against over 1,000 foreign militants and local terrorists. His tactical expertise and decisive actions, including the neutralization of key enemy leaders, were instrumental in saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. For his heroism, Major Herrera was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star, the Philippines'…

‘Philippine-American War (1899-1902): Complex Symbols & Conflicting Relationships’ Exhibit Unveiled Aboard Olympia Representatives from the Independence Seaport Museum (ISM) and the Filipino Executive Council of Greater Philadelphia (FECGP) cut the ribbon at the opening of the exhibit Philippine-American War (1899-1902): Complex Symbols & Conflicting Relationships aboard Olympia, as Consul General Senen T. Mangalile witnesses the ceremony. (Photo by Nikka Arenal) PHILADELPHIA, PA, 09 October 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York joined the opening of the Philippine-American War (1899-1902): Complex Symbols & Conflicting Relationships exhibit, organized by the Independence Seaport Museum (ISM) and the Filipino Executive Council of Greater Philadelphia (FECGP), aboard the historic cruiser Olympia.The exhibit delves into the history that ties the Philippines and the United States together, explores the complex shared yet often contentious history between the Philippines and the United States, focusing on the complex legacies of American colonialism and its lasting impact on both nations.In his opening remarks, ISM President and SEO Peter S. Seibert emphasized the significance of this collaboration with the Filipino community. “We were thrilled to work with the community and the committee to bring this exhibition to life. The story of Olympia, the story of the Filipino people, and…

Homecoming sa Konsulado Celebrates 12 Years of Bringing Together Filipino Alumni across US Northeast Participants of the 12th Homecoming sa Konsulado gathered at Van Saun Park in New Jersey, representing various Philippine universities and alumni associations across the northeastern US, coming together to celebrate Philippine culture, unity, and community spirit. NEW YORK CITY, 09 October 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with various Philippine alumni associations in the northeastern US, held the 12th Homecoming sa Konsulado (HSK) on 05 October 2024 at Van Saun Park in Paramus, New Jersey.With the theme, “Magkaisa sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the event brought together 13 alumni from Philippine universities and colleges in a vibrant celebration of Philippine heritage that fostered unity and shared pride in their roots and achievements.Ms. Vivian Talambiras-Cruz, representing the organizing team from the alumni associations, emphasized the importance of HSK in nurturing camaraderie and the deep connections between alumni and their alma maters in the Philippines. She highlighted the event’s continued success and a strong collective effort from the community that made this year’s celebration possible.In his remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile underscored the role of HSK in strengthening the bonds within the Filipino alumni…