LOS ANGELES, CA — A vibrant celebration of Filipino American history and culture took place on April 4, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 153 Glendale Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, as the Historic Filipinotown (HiFi) Jeepney Tour concluded its successful inaugural run.
Organized by the Pilipino Workers Center (PWC), the event highlighted the organization’s ongoing work in preserving Filipino American history while advancing community engagement and social justice. The tour was made possible through the sponsorship of GCash and the support of community partners, including the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Cerritos & Gateway Cities, the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Los Angeles, FILAM, Rising Filipinas, and the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Los Angeles.
At the heart of the experience was a restored 1944 Sarao Jeepney, known as the “King of the Road,” which transported guests through Historic Filipinotown’s key landmarks and cultural sites. Participants explored areas such as the Filipinotown Gateway Arch and Unidad Park, home to the largest Filipino American mural in the United States, while learning about the history of Filipino migration and the role of community activism in shaping the neighborhood.
Adding a special touch to the tour was Filipina actress and former Eat Bulaga! host Ruby Rodriguez, who served as the jeepney barker, engaging guests with her energy and connection to Filipino culture. The event also featured the use of a newly gifted Sarao jeepney from the Philippine Consulate, further underscoring the cultural significance of the initiative.
The tour included a visit to Larry Itliong Village, Unidad Park, local Filipino restaurants, the headquarters of PWC, a mini resource fair, and a community gathering at Temple Plaza. The program provided opportunities for education, cultural appreciation, and connection among attendees.
Guests also enjoyed Filipino sorbetero ice cream, adding a nostalgic and festive element to the experience.
More than a cultural tour, the initiative aims to support community preservation and economic empowerment. Proceeds from the program help fund PWC’s efforts in labor rights advocacy, social services, and programs that uplift Filipino workers and families. The tour also highlights small, locally owned businesses in Historic Filipinotown, contributing to their visibility and growth.
“The jeepney is more than a ride—it is a symbol of Filipino resilience, culture, and community,” said Malou Villacisneros, PWC’s Cultural Director. “Through this tour, we are able to share our stories, uplift local businesses, and connect our community to its roots.”
Organizers described the event as a successful pilot program, with plans to continue offering the HiFi Jeepney Tours on a regular basis, scheduled every first Saturday of the month.
The strong turnout and positive response from attendees signal growing interest in cultural programs that celebrate and preserve the Filipino American experience in Los Angeles.
As Historic Filipinotown continues to gain recognition, initiatives like the HiFi Jeepney Tour play a vital role in ensuring that its history, culture, and community remain visible for generations to come.
