PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL

Filipino Yakan Weaver Showcases Indigenous Arts in New York and Philadelphia Ms. Evelinda Otong-Hamja, a fourth-generation Yakan weaver, showcases the intricate artistry of traditional weaving during a live demonstration held on 07 December 2024 at the Penn Museum in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Nikka Arenal) NEW YORK, 10 December 2024 – In an inspiring series of events, the traditional art of Yakan weaving was celebrated in New York and Philadelphia on 06 and 07 December 2024, respectively. Ms. Evelinda Otong-Hamja, a fourth-generation Yakan weaver shared the rich cultural heritage of Yakan weaving through talks, demonstrations, and a hands-on workshop. Organized by the Philippine Consulate General in New York with support from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the Office of Senator Loren B. Legarda, these events are part of the Consulate’s Philippine Fiber, Fabric, and Textile Promotion Program, aimed at raising global awareness and appreciation for the artistry and cultural significance of Philippine textiles. Ms. Evelinda Otong-Hamja reflects on her journey as a Yakan weaver, sharing how she learned the craft from her elders and the cultural significance of the vibrant patterns and colors in Yakan textiles. (Photo by Nikka Arenal) During the conversation, Ms. Otong-Hamja reflected…

‘Love The Philippines’ Campaign Brings Filipino Wonders Back to Times Square The 'Love the Philippines' campaign lights up the heart of Times Square in Manhattan, proudly showcasing the country’s stunning landscapes and inspiring audiences to experience its wonders firsthand. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas) NEW YORK, 25 November 2024 – For the second year in a row, the Philippine Department of Tourism in New York (PDOT-NY), supported by the Philippine Consulate General in New York, has launched its “Love the Philippines” campaign on a prominent LED billboard in Times Square, New York City.Located on Broadway and 44th corner 45th Streets, the campaign features the country’s rich biodiversity, award-winning beaches, well-preserved traditions, gastronomic delights, and everything that makes the Philippines unique and worth discovering. Through a series of 15-second videos, the campaign highlights the Philippines’ exceptional offerings to inspire international audiences to explore the country.“‘Love the Philippines’ is more than a slogan; it’s an invitation to fall in love with the distinctive sights, stories, smiles, and experiences only our country can offer,” said Tourism Attaché Francisco Lardizabal. NYC's iconic yellow taxi showcases the 'Love the Philippines' campaign as it cruises through the vibrant streets of Manhattan. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas) Complementing the…

Parol-Making Workshop Lights Up PH Center in New York Participants proudly showcase their completed parols, some of which will be displayed at the Philippine Center throughout December. (Photos by Joey Magaso) NEW YORK, 23 November 2024 — The Philippine Consulate General in New York, in collaboration with The Filipino School of New York & New Jersey and Helping Stars Foundation, successfully hosted a Parol-Making Workshop at the Philippine Center. Held in celebration of November as Children’s Month and Filipino Values Month, the event was attended by over 50 Filipino families who came together to honor Filipino traditions and values through the art of parol-making. (L-R) Vice Consul Cathe Aguilar delivers welcome remarks; Ms. Venessa Manzano shares the history of the parol; and Ms. Jane Orendain reads A Filipino Christmas Wish. (Photos by Sherlyn Roxas) The program began with a presentation by Ms. Venessa Manzano of The Filipino School of New York and New Jersey, who discussed the history and cultural significance of the parol. This was followed by a book reading of Christina Bryner’s A Filipino Christmas Wish by Ms. Jane Orendain. During the workshop, families created their own parols with the guidance of Helping Stars Foundation artisans and facilitators.In…

PH Consulate and NYC Immigrant Affairs Office Strengthen Ties to Support Immigrant Communities (L-R) Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, Commissioner Manuel Castro, and Policy and Research Advisor Neatric M. Norwood engage in a productive discussion on key issues affecting immigrant communities, including the Filipino-American community in New York City. (Photo by Nikka Arenal) NEW YORK, 20 November 2024 — The Philippine Consulate General in New York welcomed New York City Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) Commissioner Manuel Castro to the Philippine Center to discuss pressing issues affecting immigrant communities, including the Filipino-American community.During the meeting, Commissioner Castro reaffirmed New York City’s steadfast commitment to remain as a sanctuary city. The Consulate pledged its support in ensuring the Filipino-American community remains informed and protected amidst federal discussions on immigration policies.The discussions also highlighted the contributions of Filipino-Americans to New York City and explored opportunities for collaboration, including through the celebration of Filipino American History Month (FAHM) every October.In a symbolic gesture, Commissioner Castro presented Consul General Senen T. Mangalile with an illustration of “Little Manila in Woodside, Queens,” underscoring the vibrancy of the Filipino American community in New York City and MOIA’s ongoing efforts to celebrate immigrant enclaves. Consul General Mangalile…

PCG Promotes Filipino Flavors at International Food Festival in New York Consul General Senen T. Mangalile (right) shares a moment with a Georgian performer at the SoFC International Food Festival, alongside a display of Filipino dishes that brought the rich flavors of the Philippines to the multicultural celebration. (Photo by Mr. Evan Abayon) NEW YORK, 15 November 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York participated in the International Food Festival organized by the Society of Foreign Consuls (SoFC) on 14 November at the Turkish House in New York. The event, attended by diplomats, consular representatives, media and the general public, celebrated cultural diversity through a variety of international cuisines and performances from participating countries.The Philippine Consulate presented a selection of Filipino dishes, including vegetarian pancit (stir-fried noodles), chicken barbecue, and turon (banana spring rolls), accompanied by refreshing calamansi and mango juices. These offerings provided attendees with a flavorful glimpse of the country’s rich culinary heritage.Ambassador Muhittin Ahmet Yazal, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye, welcomed the guests and expressed hope for the festival to continue as a platform where people from different cultures come together and share their traditions.Other participating countries included Argentina, Bulgaria, Georgia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan,…