FAC3 NOV14

Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Cerritos (FAC3) Shines a Light on Filipino American Small Businesses at Induction of Officers Night

Cerritos, CA - October 27, 2023

Cerritos Councilmember presented the Proclamation of the Filipino American History Month in Cerritos to FAC3’s newly inducted officers, board members, and ambassadors during its inaugural induction gala on October 27, 2023 at the Sheraton Cerritos Hotel in Cerritos, CA. In photo, standing in back row (L-R): James Juan (FAC3 Board Member), Matt Cruz (FAC3 Board Member), Rocky Pavone (FAC3 Ambassador), Atty. Marlon Baldomero (FAC3 Legal Advisor), Mark Alipio (FAC3 Ambassador), Jeff Bautista (FAC3 Co Founder). Standing in front row: Christine Consunji (FAC3 Vice President), Louise Lontoc (FAC3 Ambassador), Agnes Bautista (FAC3 Board Member), Cerritos Councilmember Frank Yokoyama, Ellen Rodriguez-Swing (FAC3 President), Dennis Figueroa (FAC3 Treasurer), Ron Dizon (FAC3 Vice President), Demeven Quirino (FAC3 Vice President).

In a remarkable display of illumination and elevation, the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Cerritos (FAC3) celebrated the night at the Sheraton Cerritos Hotel on October 27, 2023, during its inaugural induction of officers gala. This event not only marked a significant milestone in the chamber's history but also underscored their unwavering commitment to empower and elevate the Filipino American small business community in Cerritos and Gateway Cities region.

The FAC3 journey began amidst the chaos and uncertainty brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. Recognizing the pressing need for support among local entrepreneurs, FAC3 was founded as a beacon of hope, offering vital information and resources to navigate the challenging business landscape.

For the first year of its existence, unforeseen circumstances prevented the induction of founding officers who were unable to complete their term, leaving the chamber in a unique position. In 2022, FAC3 members cast their votes and elected Ellen Rodriguez-Swing as President, embarking on a new chapter of growth and success. Under the new leadership which includes community leaders Christine Consunji, Demeven Quirino, and Ron Dizon, FAC3 has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to educating, empowering, and enriching the success of Filipino American small businesses.

FAC3's mission revolves around providing valuable access to public information, resources, visibility, and strategic collaboration. Their core values of Integrity, Relevance, and Advocacy reflect a commitment to ethical practices, staying up-to-date with industry trends, and advocating for the interests of Filipino American businesses.

FAC3 held its inaugural induction of its new set of officers, board members, and ambassadors on October 27, 2023 at the Sheraton Cerritos Hotel in Cerritos, CA.In photo (L-R): Matt Ranillo, CEO of Island Pacific who was the recipient of the Business of the Year Award, Christine Consunji (FAC3 Vice President), Ellen Rodriguez-Swing (FAC3 President), and Cerritos Councilmember Frank Yokoyama, recipient of the Community Builder Award.

The Induction of Officers Night, themed "Illuminate & Elevate," celebrated the official and inaugural installation of the new set of officers for the term 2023-2024. On this auspicious night, the following FAC3’s new set of officers, board members, and ambassadors were inducted:

President: Ellen Rodriguez-Swing

Vice President for Events: Christine Consunji

Vice President for Membership: Demeven Quirino

Vice President for Business Development: Ron Dizon

Legal Advisor/Board Member: Attorney Marlon Baldomero

Treasurer/Board Member: Dennis Figueroa

Board Members: Matt Cruz, James Juan, Agnes Juan

Ambassadors: Mark Alipio, Louise Lontoc, Rocky Pavone

FAC3 held its inaugural induction of its new set of officers, board members, and ambassadors on October 27, 2023 at the Sheraton Cerritos Hotel in Cerritos, CA.In photo (L-R): Jeff Bautista (FAC3 Co Founder), Atty. Marlon Baldomero (FAC3 Legal Advisor), Gerladine Larson (FACCOC President and guest), Christine Consunji (FAC3 Vice President), Ellen Rodriguez-Swing (FAC3 President), Ron Dizon (FAC3 Vice President), Matt Cruz (FAC3 Board Member), Demeven Quirino (FAC3 Vice President), Agnes Bautista (FAC3 Board Member), Mark Alipio (FAC3 Ambassador), James Juan (FAC3 Board Member).

FAC3 held its inaugural induction of its new set of officers, board members, and ambassadors on October 27, 2023 at the Sheraton Cerritos Hotel in Cerritos, CA.In photo (L-R): FAC3’s distinguished guests, Cerritos Councilmember Frank Yokoyama, recipient of the Community Builder Award, Cerritos Councilmember Lynda Johnson, Artesia Councilmember Melissa Ramoso, recipient of the Chamber Champion Award, Gloria Pulido, and Mark Pulido, former Cerritos mayor.

Notable attendees included SBA Los Angeles District Office Director Ben Raju as the keynote speaker whose insights and inspirational words resonated with the audience, highlighting his office as a champion for small businesses. Cerritos Councilmember Frank Yokoyama was another distinguished presence at the event, taking on the role of performing the induction ceremonies. Among the event's highlights, Councilmember Yokoyama had the honor of rededicating the Proclamation of Filipino American History Month in Cerritos to FAC3, a significant achievement that he, along with fellow Filipino American Councilmember Lynda Johnson, played a pivotal role in passing in Cerritos.

The gala also featured an Awards and Recognition portion titled "Illuminate and Elevate," presented by Philippine Consulate Los Angeles Consul Maynard Maleon. The honorees included City of Artesia Council Member Melissa Ramoso for the Chamber Champion award, City of Cerritos Council Member Frank Yokoyama for the Community Builder award, Island Pacific for Business of the Year which was received by its CEO, Matt Ranillo, Jane Rockstar Salon for Small Business of the Year, Kalayaan Incorporated for the Community Impact Award, and Edward Lago, owner of Our Community Mortgage, for the Community Engagement Ally award.

In addition to the awards, the night featured performances by Filipino American artists Amin Sax, a multi-awarded saxophonist, and extraordinaire Honore', who serenaded the audience with their lively performances.

FAC3's Induction of Officers Night marked a significant moment for the Filipino American small business community, illuminating the path to success and acknowledging the dedicated individuals and businesses that continue to make a remarkable impact. As FAC3 moves forward, it remains committed to its mission of championing and supporting the growth of Filipino American entrepreneurs in the region.