FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 12, 2018
Contact:
Jason Tengco, NaFFAA Executive Director
jason.tengco@naffaa.org
Tel. 202-803-1353
NaFFAA Statement on the 120th Anniversary of Philippine Independence Day
Washington, DC – On June 12, 2018, the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) joins the people of our native Philippines, as well as the entire Filipino diaspora, in celebrating the 120th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day.
This momentous day commemorates the Philippine Declaration of Independence from Spain on June 12, 1898. Together with Philippine Republic Day on July 4, which celebrates Philippine independence from the United States via the Treaty of Manila, this day harkens to a complicated history of colonization and hard-won independence that defines the strength of the Filipino spirit.
“As the largest federation of Filipino American organizations in the United States, NaFFAA is proud of the rich heritage, the triumphant history, and the resilient people of our native Philippines,” states NaFFAA National Chairman Brendan Flores. “On this 120th anniversary of Philippine independence, we look to the challenges and successes of our ancestors as a roadmap to a more ascendant future for Filipinos here and across the world.”
“Philippine Independence Day is the perfect opportunity for our proud and growing community to remember that we come from a history of struggle and triumph,” adds NaFFAA Executive Director Jason Tengco. “Our indelible legacy of perseverance can be traced to Filipino visionaries and heroes who remind us that our story and contributions make a difference: no matter where we call home.”
NaFFAA endeavors to honor Philippine Independence Day by investing in the empowerment of Filipino Americans through leadership development, civic engagement, and advocacy.
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About NaFFAA
The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization. Established in 1997, NaFFAA has been the standard bearer for promoting the welfare and well-being of the 4 million Filipinos and Filipino Americans throughout the United States. NaFFAA’s vision is to serve as the voice of all Filipinos and Filipino Americans by uniting, engaging, and empowering diverse individuals and community organizations through leadership development, civic engagement, and national advocacy.