Unforgettable Two Nights: Celebrating Filipino American History Month in Cerritos

CERRITOS, CA – The vibrant and influential Filipino American community in Cerritos, California, celebrated a historic moment over two unforgettable nights, as the city council officially recognized their pivotal role in the community and proclaimed October as Filipino American History Month. The honor of receiving this proclamation went to the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Cerritos (FAC3) and Cerritos High School (CHS), the two FilAm organizations selected to represent the FilAm community of the City of Cerritos.

The proclamation was made possible by the dedication of the city’s two FilAm council members, Frank Yokoyama and Lynda Johnson. Their relentless efforts and unwavering commitment to the Filipino American community shone brightly as they championed this proclamation, symbolizing the city's acknowledgment of the rich Filipino cultural heritage and contributions within Cerritos. On Thursday, October 26th, Cerritos City Council, led by Mayor Bruce Barrows and the five council members, made this significant declaration and presented it to FAC3, led by the officers President Ellen Rodriguez-Swing and Vice President Demeven Quirino, and CHS, led by Kaitlin Casica.

Mark Pulido, the former mayor of Cerritos, graced the occasion with his presence, accompanied by his wife Gloria, his sister Marissa, and Johnny Itliong, the son of the Filipino American labor rights leader Larry Itliong. Their presence underscored the unity and support of the Cerritos community for this momentous occasion.

The festivities continued on the following night, October 27th, at the FAC3’s Induction of Officers Gala at the Sheraton Cerritos Hotel. Councilmember Frank Yokoyama was invited as the inducting officer and once again highlighted the importance of the proclamation, rededicating it to the newly inducted officers and board members of FAC3. This moment symbolized the passing of the torch of heritage from the city to the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce, creating a significant and memorable milestone in the chamber's history.

FAC3 expressed their profound gratitude for the recognition and pledged to continue their work in strengthening the bonds of the Filipino American community. This historic proclamation will forever inspire them to contribute more, serve better, and preserve their rich cultural legacy for generations to come.

The celebration of Filipino American History Month in Cerritos was not just an event but a testament to the enduring contributions and cultural heritage of the Filipino American community. It served as a reminder of the importance of recognizing the diversity that enriches the city's tapestry, as they commemorated their past while looking towards a promising future.

The Cerritos City Council presented FAC3 with the Proclamation of the Filipino American History Month in Cerritos last October 26, 2023 at the Cerritos City Hall Council Chambers in Cerritos, CA. In photo, (L-R): Matt Cruz (FAC3 Board Member), Demeven Quirino (FAC3 Vice President), Ellen Rodriguez-Swing (FAC3 President), Mark Alipio, (FAC3 Ambassador), Edward Lago (PhilAm Chamber of Commerce of AZ President).

The proclamation was made possible by the dedication of the City of Cerritos’ two FilAm council members. In photo, (L-R): Councilmember Lynda Johnson and Councilmember Frank Yokoyama.

The Cerritos City Council presented FAC3 with the Proclamation of the Filipino American History Month in Cerritos last October 26, 2023 at the Cerritos City Hall Council Chambers in Cerritos, CA. In photo, standing in the back row (L-R): Councilmember Frank Yokoyama, Councilmember Lynda Johnson, Demeven Quirino (FAC3 Vice President), Mayor Bruce Barrows, Mayor Pro Tem Naresh Solanki, Councilmember Chuong Vo. Standing in the front row (L-R): Aimee Bondoc (FAC3 Ambassador), Mark Alipio, (FAC3 Ambassador), Ellen Rodriguez-Swing (FAC3 President), Matt Cruz (FAC3 Board Member).