SF Fil-Am Chamber of Commerce marks 50 years of promoting business

Some members of the SF Fil-Am Chamber of Commerce, which is celebrating its 50th year. FACEBOOK

SAN FRANCISCO – For half a century, the San Francisco Filipino American Chamber of Commerce (SFFACC) has been promoting and advocating for the success of the Filipino American business community in the San Francisco Bay Area.

“Building Bridges, Honoring our Legacy, and Embracing the Future” is the Chamber’s theme for its Oct. 7, celebration at the San Francisco Design Center Galleria, when it rolls out the red carpet to business and civic influencers who have contributed to its success.

Ben Menor, chair of the festivities, said, “SF FilAm Chamber of Commerce has played a major role in fostering a successful Filipino business community. The fact that the original organization has survived fifty years is a testament to its strength and perseverance.”

Aaron Orcino is the incoming President of the SF Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce. CONTRIBUTED

Reflecting its cultural DNA, SFFACC has chosen the Filipino Cultural Center in San Francisco, Sentro Filipino, as the beneficiary of funds raised at the event.

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Jose Pecho, chair of SFFACC, said “Let’s reflect on 50 years of business growth and cultural connectivity while supporting Sentro Filipino, our cultural hub. Together, we’ll inspire and sustain Filipino entrepreneurship and doing our part to make our community in the SF region a better one. We invite those who love business and love our community to come out for this momentous occasion.”

Keynote Speaker is Mona Pasquil, a prominent figure in the Filipino community and currently serving as the Strategic Partnerships Manager for Facebook and Meta. Pasquil has a rich history of public service and advocacy, including her role as the first Asian, first female acting Lieutenant Governor of California.

New officers of SFFACC will be formally sworn in, headed by its Chairman, Pecho, and incoming President Aaron Orcino who said, “I’m very excited about the possibilities to enable prosperity through technology enablement. Accepting this role is an extension of my lifelong mission to elevate our community.”

This event will also honor the pioneers who paved the way for economic growth and build bridges that span generations, industries, and communities, paving the path for an even brighter future.

Some 300 attendees are anticipated. Early major sponsors are Philippine Airlines, STIIIZY, ABS-CBN and Make it Mariko. Bronze sponsors are UCSF and AARP.