In a closely contested election, Arman David emerged as the newly elected president of the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI) on Sunday, Oct. 7, clinching victory by a mere one-vote margin. David’s success is a testament to the widespread support he garnered within the PIDCI community.
Expressing his gratitude, David stated, “Through God’s divine intervention and your unwavering support, I won by 1 vote.”
A total of 80 votes were cast, with 30 of those being proxy votes. Unfortunately, two votes were voided due to errors, highlighting the PIDCI team’s diligence with which the election process was conducted. These instances included an incorrect first name for the president and a blank vote for the presidential candidate in one of the director slots.
With a background as a dedicated nurse, David brings a strong sense of service and commitment to his new position. His involvement with PIDCI spans three years, during which he served in various capacities on the board, including Director, Secretary, and most recently, vice president. Throughout this tenure, David’s dedication to PIDCI’s betterment has been evident, working tirelessly to enhance the organization’s impact on the community.
David’s presidency pledges to prioritize key values within PIDCI, with transparency, accountability, and community engagement at the forefront. He envisions a PIDCI that is inclusive and welcoming to all, striving for excellence in every endeavor.
“I am committed to making PIDCI a more accessible and equitable organization,” David declared. He plans to initiate outreach programs to encourage more community organizations to become members, thus opening the doors to greater transparency and collaboration. David firmly believes that every voice in the Filipino community deserves to be heard and represented.
David envisions building on PIDCI’s solid foundation, with ambitions to expand its reach and impact. He aims to explore new avenues to showcase the rich history, cultural heritage, and traditions of the Filipino people to a wider audience.
Also elected as members of the Board of Directors were Czarmel Lopez, Aida Tagle, Joycelyn Andes, Maria Nucum, Paul Versoza, Rico Viray, and Teodora Kotsidis. The board election saw 13 candidates vying for seven open positions, further exemplifying the robust engagement and commitment within PIDCI’s leadership.
David’s victory as PIDCI President stands as a milestone in the organization’s history. With his resolute dedication and vision, David is poised to lead PIDCI into a new era of growth and progress, promising a bright future for the Filipino community in New York City and beyond.
