SAN JOSE HONORS FIL-AM COMMUNITY IN FLAG RAISING RITES

31 October 2007 – The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that in celebration of Filipino-American History month, the Philippine flag was hoisted alongside the American flag at a ceremony held in San Jose City Hall on 22 October 2007. The event was viewed by local residents as symbolic of the ascendance of the Filipino community in San Jose.

In attendance were Mayor Chuck Reed who welcomed Deputy Consul General Antonio Morales of San Francisco PCG,  World War II Veterans, San Jose city hall employees, Fil-Am historians, community leaders, students from San Jose State University, youth leaders, and seniors. All paid tribute to the many contributions of the Filipino-American community in the development of San Jose, and the bravery of Filipino World War II Veterans, who were also honored during the occasion.   

Mr. Morales gave credence to the Fil-Am community and the veterans who have given much sacrifice and made outstanding achievements for their invaluable contributions to the Philippines’ heritage. Echoing this sentiment, the Mayor of San Jose and city council members proclaimed October as Filipino-American History month. Similar proclamations were given by high ranking officials from surrounding cities which includes Filipino Mayor Jose Esteves of Milpitas and Sunnyvale Mayor Otto Lee, also among the distinguished guests.

Filipino historian Ron Muriera, Administrator of the Filipino-American National Historical Society (FANHS), the organization which spearheaded this event, spoke about the Filipino heritage and culture. He also tackled how Filipinos progressed from the earliest migrants working in the plantations of Hawaii and California to their political and economic growth, as the second largest Asian community in America.