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…

PH Consulate General in New York Announces 2025 Online Voting System and Upcoming Major Events at Media Hour Consul General Senen T. Mangalile (seated directly under the television screen) discusses key updates on the upcoming 2025 Philippine national elections, addressing concerns from media representatives about the security of the newly introduced online voting system. NEW YORK CITY, 03 October 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York hosted its quarterly Media Hour on 02 October 2024 at the Philippine Center New York, where it presented the introduction of online voting for overseas Filipinos in the 2025 Philippine national elections and a preview of its upcoming events for the remainder of the year.Consul General Senen T. Mangalile informed the Filipino-American media that the online voting system will be implemented for the first time for overseas Filipinos, with the goal of increasing voter participation by providing a more accessible voting process. He added that a comprehensive information campaign is set to be rolled out in the coming months to ensure Filipino communities across the northeastern US are well-informed about the new process and pre-enrollment requirements.Consul General Mangalile also shared the Consulate’s lineup of activities, including the Kundiman Seminar-Workshop and Concert on…

New York PCG Filipinnovation Forum Showcases Filipino Leadership in Advancing Sustainable Development Filipino professionals share their insights and efforts in attaining Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the panel discussion at forum on “Filipinnovation: Charting the Path to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas) NEW YORK, 30 September 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York hosted a forum on “Filipinnovation: Charting the Path to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” at the Philippine Center in New York, which featured the contributions and leadership by Filipino and Filipino-American professionals in driving solutions to meet the SDGs. The event brought together young leaders who are making strides in various fields to advance sustainability and inclusivity.In his welcome remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile echoed the sentiments of UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Philippine Secretary for Foreign Affairs Enrique Manalo, underscoring the critical role of collaboration in tackling issues such as climate change, inequality, and economic growth. He remarked, “The effects of global inequality, economic uncertainty, and the far-reaching impacts of climate change stare at us directly and with an unwavering gaze. We hope that in our own small way, this forum, and the incredible Filipinnovators you will hear from today, will…

DBM Secretary Pangandaman Connects with Filipino Community in Consulate Town Hall Meeting in New York DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman (5th from left), Philippine Permanent Representative to the UN Amb. Antonio Lagdameo (4th from left), and Consul General Senen T. Mangalile (5th from right) are joined by Filipino community members and New York PCG personnel for a family photo. NEW YORK CITY, 29 September 2024 — Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) engaged with members of the Filipino community in a town hall meeting hosted by the Philippine Consulate General in New York on 28 September 2024 at the Philippine Center in New York. The event was held on the sidelines of her visit to the city as a member of the Philippine delegation to the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, in his welcome remarks, highlighted the Consulate’s efforts to provide opportunities for the Filipino community to connect with visiting Philippine government officials. He noted that town hall meetings are an essential platform for keeping the community informed about current developments in the Philippines. In her presentation, Secretary Pangandaman outlined the Philippine government’s ongoing key initiatives and budget…

New York PCG Supports Filipino Designers And Promotes Philippine Creative Industries At NY Fashion Week NEW YORK CITY, 11 September 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York supported the participation of Filipino designers at the September 2024 New York Fashion Week. On 7 September 2024, FILIPINXT and House of Musa Travel Runways and Entertainment Productions showcased the works of Filipino designers in two separate runway shows, highlighting the country's innovative spirit and rich heritage through fashion design. Filipino designers' creations take center stage at the Filipinxt Spring/Summer 2025 Fashion Show, showcasing a blend of tradition and innovation on the runway. (Photos by Erik Aguilar) FILIPINXT hosted its second Filipino-American Fashion Show at Annex 417 along 5th Avenue, New York City, which featured the creations of Filipino designers Chynna Mamawal, Andrea Tetangco, Adrienne Charuel of Maison Metisse, Gabby Garcia of Tagpi, Wilson Limon of NiñOFRANCO, and FILIPINXT CEO Bessie Besana. FILIPINXT continued its mission of elevating Filipino designers on the international stage, building on the success of its inaugural show in May 2024. Consul General Senen T. Mangalile, who graced the event, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “Our goal is to position the Philippines as Asia’s premier…

New York PCG Celebrates Philippine History And Heritage Through Sinehan Sa Konsulado 2024 New York, 30 August 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York successfully hosted the 2024 Sinehan sa Konsulado (SSK), a flagship cultural initiative that celebrates the richness of Philippine cinema and its role in reflecting Filipino history, culture, and values. Held from 27-29 August at the King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center (KJCC), New York University, this year’s series featured the screenings of four significant films: José Rizal, Pag-asa, Ang Huling Katipunero, and Hinabing Pag-asa. Consul General Senen T. Mangalile delivers opening remarks to a diverse audience, including members of the Filipino community, the academe, and Philippine history enthusiasts, during the screening of the digitally restored and remastered version of the 1998 classic José Rizal, held at the King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center, New York University, as part of the 2024 Sinehan sa Konsulado. The highlight of this year’s SSK was the screening of the digitally restored and remastered version of the 1998 classic José Rizal, presented as part of the commemoration of National Heroes Day on 26 August and History Month throughout August. This screening, supported by the different chapters of…

Consul General Mangalile, SIPAG-NY Discuss Community Engagement and Upcoming Events NEW YORK CITY, 20 August 2024 –The Staten Island Pilipino American Group (SIPAG), led by Board Member Paul Magahis, paid a courtesy call on Consul General Senen T. Mangalile on 15 August at the Philippine Center in New York to discuss community engagement and preparations for the upcoming North American Basketball Association (NABA) Intercity Competition over the Labor Day weekend in Washington D.C. and Maryland. Consul General Mangalile commended SIPAG for its significant contributions over the years and encouraged them to mark their upcoming 40th anniversary with activities that celebrate their impact on the community. He praised the organization’s efforts in organizing typhoon relief initiatives and urged them to continue valuable outreach programs that embody the spirit of bayanihan of Filipino culture. He also emphasized the importance of expanding SIPAG’s activities beyond basketball to foster a more inclusive and dynamic organization. In addition, Consul General Mangalile shared details about the annual Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour, which offers affordable travel packages to explore the Philippines. He invited SIPAG members to join the tour in the future, providing a unique opportunity to reconnect with their heritage and experience the beauty of…