University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Los Angeles Celebrates 25 Years of Excellence
Get Your Tickets Now and Don’t Miss the Chance to Join This Historic Celebration! LOS ANGELES — The University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Los Angeles (UPAAGLA) proudly announces its 25th Anniversary Endowment Fundraising and Awards Gala, scheduled for November 9, 2024, at the Warner Center Marriott Woodland Hills. This milestone event celebrates…
Christine Rocas: Breathtaking brilliance from trusting the created sacred space with cast and partner
“I FIRST met Christine Rocas about 12 years ago when I was asked to co-produce a fundraiser event for Typhoon Haiyan relief at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. I remember being completely entranced and mesmerized by her performance; a ballet dancer with so much power and grace, it was completely captivating (I mean, how…
A visit to the presidential residence of the First Family
(From left) Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, Trade Secretary Cristina Roque, and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos. Deputy Social Secretary Dina Arroyo-Tantoco (at the back) is partially seen. Photos courtesy of Rogelio Medina THROUGH the efforts of First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, Bahay Pangulo (during Pres. Bongbong Marcos’ term), formerly named Bahay Pangarap (during Pres. Noynoy Aquino’s…
Rivermaya rocks Los Angeles with a sold-out reunion concert
Bamboo Mañalac rendering a song onstage. Photo by Mic Diaz FOR the first time Filipinos from all over Southern California gathered to witness one of the most-awaited historical and life-changing moments of the year, the Rivermaya Reunion Concert at the Greek Theatre on Friday, October 4. It was as if Rivermaya fans were transported back…
The Rise of Abi Marquez: From Culinary Content Creator to Filipino Food Ambassador
Abi’s talent has earned her a James Beard nomination, a spot in Forbes 30 Under 30 Class of 2024, and TikTok’s Creator of the Year for Food. Her culinary creativity shines through in every recipe, blending flavors that honor her roots while pushing the boundaries of Filipino food in the international scene. In a playful interview…
2025 PH national elections to go fully online for overseas Filipinos, says Consul General Mangalile
NEW YORK – Consul General Senen Mangalile announced significant developments regarding the May 2025 Philippine National Elections during the ConGen Hour with the media last week, highlighting the Philippine government’s efforts to modernize the voting process for Overseas Filipinos. Mangalile revealed that, for the first time, internet voting would be the sole mode of participation…
Gardasil 9 and HPV
COMPARED to most head and neck malignancies, the rate of throat cancer in the United States and around the globe has not declined. The statistics are also true, when extrapolated, for other countries, like the Philippines, since most Filipinos are westernized in their lifestyle, habits, and behaviors, etc. The most logical explanation why cancer of…
Citizen Pinoy answers immigration questions at a New York City pop-up event
IN this week’s episode of “Citizen Pinoy,” leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel heads to a vibrant Pop-up event in New York City called “Batok at Sulat,” where he learns about the Filipino indigenous art of “batok” tattooing, made famous by the legendary Apo Whang-Od. The event, organized by Augee Francisco, owner of Kabisera…
‘Citizen Puti’ special: A family reunited through patience, love, and one White American being a big fan of Citizen Pinoy
From left: Ricky Lee, Aries, Arya, Martha and Atty. Michael Gurfinkel FOR 19 years, the show has been known as “Citizen Pinoy,” but in this special episode, leading U.S. Immigration Attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel is calling it “Citizen Puti” in honor of a remarkable American who is not only a dedicated fan of the show…
MILLION TREES FOUNDATION HONORED WITH BANTAYOG NG LAWA AWARD
The Million Trees Foundation, Inc. (MTFI) was recognized with the Bantayog ng Lawa award during the 55th anniversary of the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) recently in ceremonies held in Quezon City. Bantayog ng Lawa awards were given to 59 outstanding individuals and organizations that have contributed in protecting and promoting sustainable development in Laguna…
Loida Nicolas Lewis praises “world-class” “Ibalon,” coming to SoCal Oct. 27
“Bravo!” exclaimed Loida Nicolas Lewis, outstanding Filipino American community leader, about the Philippine Ballet Theatre’s “Ibalon,” which she watched recently in New York, and will be presented on October 27, 5:00 pm at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. Nicolas Lewis praised the coming show in a statement: “ ‘Ibalon’ is a Bicol epic…
CITEM offers glimpses of reimagination at Manila FAME 2024 Media Preview
Members of the media were given a sneak peek into the upcoming 72nd edition of Manila FAME, as organized by the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) during the Manila FAME Media Preview held at the Makati Diamond Residences on October 10, 2024. With only a few days before Manila FAME 2024–the country’s…
Monterey Park Mayor Thomas Wong Hosts AAPI Leaders Luncheon & Briefing on Proposition 5: Affordable Housing & Public Infrastructure
Monterey Park, CA — Monterey Park Mayor Thomas Wong welcomed local AAPI leaders for a special luncheon and briefing today to discuss Proposition 5, a significant ballot initiative aimed at empowering communities to address the critical needs of affordable housing and public infrastructure. “I am proud to join local and regional leaders, teachers, nurses, business…
Social Security Announces 2.5 Percent Benefit Increase for 2025
Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for more than 72.5 million Americans will increase 2.5 percent in 2025, the Social Security Administration announced today. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by about $50 per month starting in January. Over the last decade the COLA increase has averaged about 2.6 percent….
‘Abot-Kamay na Pangarap’ finale on Oct. 19; CITEM to hold Manila F.A.M.E. Oct. 17-19
The cast of the GMA Network soap opera “Abot-Kamay na Pangarap” headed by Carmina Villaroel, Richard Yap and Jillian Ward. AFTER over two years on air with several milestones achieved, GMA Network’s top-rating afternoon drama “Abot-Kamay na Pangarap” nears its finale on October 19. The record-breaking show is headlined by Carmina Villarroel as Lyneth, Richard Yap as Doc RJ, and Star…
PAL Opens New Manila-Cauayan Route in January
Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) is adding Cauayan, Isabela to its growing domestic network out of Manila starting January 15, 2025. The new PAL service will offer daily flights for the convenience of traveling tourists, businessmen and families. The hour-long flights give residents of Northern Luzon a new alternative to a land trip of more…
Remembering piano legend Nena Del Rosario-Villanueva: A legacy of music and inspiration
The New York City concert, co-produced by Jun and Myla Villanueva (second and third from left), showcased four talented Filipino musicians—pianists Jovianney Emmanuel Cruz (left) and Rene Dalandan (second from right), soprano Margarita Giannelli (right), and violinist Jeanne Marquez (third from right)v—performing Nena’s favorite classical pieces. Photos by Troi Santos Family, friends, and global Filipino…
Maria Torres-Springer Takes the Helm as NYC’s First Deputy Mayor
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has announced the appointment of Maria Torres-Springer as the new first deputy mayor, marking a significant leadership change in his administration. Torres-Springer, who previously held the role of Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development, and Workforce, will now oversee strategic operations and provide budgetary oversight for the City of…
Remastered classic Bona returns to the spotlight at the 62nd New York Film Festival
Among those who attended the Cannes premiere of *Bona* were (from left) Daphne Chiu of TBA Studios, Vicky Belarmino from the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Cinemalaya, Gil Quito, director Harold Soon of TBA Studios, and American filmmaker Sean Baker (second from right), who later won the Palme d’Or for *Anora*. A passionate fan…
Nobel prizes for mRNA
THE Nobel Prize in Physiology-Medicine has been awarded to two scientists for their discovery of micro-RNA (mRNA), which “helps determine how cells develop and function, and malfunction.” A sample of the benefits to mankind of mRNA is the mind-boggling speed at which COVID-19 was developed. The uninformed members of society even suspected “dangerous short-cuts” were…
Gina de Venecia files candidacy for Pangasinan’s 4th Congressional District
Former congresswoman Gina V.P. de Venecia, popularly known as Manay Gina, officially filed her Certificate of Candidacy (COC) on Sunday, October 6, 2024, aiming to return to the House of Representatives. Her COC was filed on her behalf by her son, incumbent congressman Christopher “Toff” de Venecia (4th District, Pangasinan) at the Commission on Elections…
On Guarding Our Thoughts
What narratives or stories do you create in your mind? Are they true or mere products of your insecurities and fears? Do they stem from childhood experiences that shape your sense of self, either positively or negatively? Are these thoughts uplifting or do they lead to feelings of depression? Are they real, or just impostors?…
Filipino chefs and restaurants to watch at the 2024 Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival
Foodies and food-lovers, it’s time! The Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival (NYCWFF) is back to celebrate its 17th year from October 17 to 20, 2024, bringing over 80 exciting events across New York City. With more than 400 chefs and culinary personalities participating, the festival promises a range of unforgettable dining…
Award-Winning Documentary *Nurse Unseen* Comes to Quad Cinema NYC This October
This October, the critically acclaimed documentary *Nurse Unseen* makes its New York debut at Quad Cinema, shedding light on the untold stories of Filipino American nurses who served on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Directed by Michele Josue, *Nurse Unseen* explores the often-overlooked history, sacrifices, and contributions of Filipino nurses in the United States…
Tisha Alyn hosts 2nd Philippine Airlines (PAL) USA Cup
TISHA Alyn, a Filipino American former pro golfer turned popular golf media personality who was recently featured in Forbes’ “Women in Sports,” will host the exciting Second Philippine Airlines (PAL) USA Cup – Bong K. Tan Memorial Golf Tournament on November 2 at the Morongo Golf Club at Tukwet Canyon in Beaumont. Forbes, in its…
PNB Travel Fair: Banking on Exclusive Travel Deals
The Philippine National Bank (PNB) in partnership with Ayala Malls, Mastercard, and Philippine Airlines is set to launch the first PNB Travel Fair on October 5-6, 2024 at the Activity Center of Ayala Malls Manila Bay, offering exclusive discounts on flights, hotels, and tour packages from some of the biggest names in the travel and…
City of Carson Kicks Off Filipino American History Month with Cultural Celebration and First-Ever Auto Show
The City of Carson is thrilled to announce the Filipino American History Month Kick-Off! Event goers are in for a treat as we celebrate Filipino American history, culture and acknowledge Filipino-American contributions in the arts and innovation. In addition to mainstage entertainment, this year’s FAHM celebration will inaugurate the “Battle for the Best” chicken adobo cook-off, showcasing…
Filipino American voters key to Nevada’s 2024 outcome, says Maya Harris
Maya Harris, sister of Vice President Kamala Harris, highlighted the pivotal role of Filipino American voters in Nevada during a phone-banking event organized by SEIU Local 1107 in Las Vegas. Speaking on September 28, she emphasized that the 2020 election was decided by just 35,000 votes in the state, while Nevada is home to approximately…
Himala Arts and Music Festival in Ilocos Norte on Nov. 16
ILOCOS Norte Governor Matthew Joseph Marcos Manotoc, who finished a psychology course in Claremont McKenna College in California and attended the National University of Singapore’s Stanford Graduate School of Business, is inviting fellow Ilocano and non-Ilocano residents to join in “Himala sa Buhangin” (Miracle in the Sand) event during the Himala Arts and Music Festival…
Safer with vaccine
THE world, humankind, is safer because we have vaccines against fatal infectious diseases. The Black Death, the plague in Europe, between 1347 to 1351, killed between 25-50 million (about half) of the population in Europe because there were no vaccines. This is just like saying we are blessed and safer for having most efficacious antibiotics…