New York State Assembly adopts reso for PH Independence Day

ALBANY, New York - The New York State Assembly on Tuesday, June 4, adopted a resolution memorializing New York Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim June 12, 2024 as Philippine Independence Day in the State of New York.

This resolution was sponsored by Assemblymember Kenneth Zebrowski and co-sponsored by Assemblymember Steven Raga.

The Filipino community also gathered at the New York State Capitol that day to commemorate the 126th Philippine Independence Day. The event was organized by Raga's office and the Philippine Consulate General in New York.

Raga, the first-ever Filipino and Southeast Asian American elected to office in New York State, introduced the Filipino and Filipino-American community and the delegation from the Province of Misamis Oriental during the Assembly's morning session.

The Filipino community was welcomed by Assembly Deputy Speaker Philip Ramos.

Ramos shared his affinity for the Philippines and voiced his admiration for the Filipino community. The deputy speaker also said he is interested in sending a New York State legislative delegation to the Philippines to explore mutual opportunities.

Ramos also proposed creating a task force to address the labor market opportunities between the Philippines and New York State.

A cultural celebration was later held that day which included performances by Filipino American community members and organizations.

Deputy Director of Asian Affairs Sibu Nair from the Office of New York State Governor Kathy Hochul and Director of Asian American Affairs Adam Chen from the Office of New York State Attorney General Letitia James also delivered messages of support on behalf of their principals.

“It is an honor to serve in the state legislature and be able to celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant culture of the Filipino community in New York State. This celebration is not just a commemoration of our history but also a testament to the enduring spirit and contributions of Filipinos in New York. I am immensely proud to represent such a dynamic and resilient community, not only in Assembly District 30 but throughout the state. Together, we will continue to build bridges of understanding and collaboration, ensuring that everywhere we go, our voices are heard, and our presence is felt,” Raga said.

Consul General Senen Mangalile said the celebration is a testament to the strong bonds between the Filipino community and the state of New York.

“As we gather for the second year at the state capitol to commemorate the 126th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, the historic halls of the Legislative Office Building again bear witness to the strong bonds between the Filipino community and the great state of New York," Mangalile said.

"We celebrate under the theme ‘Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.’ – ‘Freedom. Future. History.’ – which echoes the spirit of the Katipunan, whose bravery and patriotism laid the foundation for the freedom the Philippines now enjoys," he added.

Mangalile then called on the Filipino community in New York "to draw inspiration from the Katipunan’s courage as we work together to build a prosperous and united future for a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines)."

He then thanked Raga and his office "for their initiative and invaluable support in co-organizing this celebration with the Philippine Consulate.” —KG, GMA Integrated News