LOOK: Filipino flag flown at California college
Screencap from FOX 5 San Diego/YouTube
In a historic gesture that aligns with the spirit of inclusivity, Southwestern College in Chula Vista raised the Filipino flag for the very first time for Filipino American History Month on Oct. 18.
The event brought together an enthusiastic crowd of students, faculty, school board trustees, and Superintendent Dr. Mark Sanchez at the corner of H Street and Otay Lakes Road, California.
In addition to raising the Filipino flag for the first time in the college’s history, the event featured captivating cultural performances by Samahan and provided an opportunity to shop and support local vendors at the Mabuhay Market. It was a day filled with cultural richness and camaraderie.
Southwestern College’s Facebook post beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the event: “We commemorate a historic moment when the Filipino flag was raised for the first time at Southwestern College, symbolizing Fil-Am’s history, heritage, and contributions.”
On Fox 5 San Diego, Dr. Sanchez expressed, “Being able to raise the Filipino flag is a sign to our community that we value you, that you are important to us, and that we understand the history that the Filipino community has invested, not only locally but throughout the state, the country, and the world.”
With approximately 200,000 Filipino Americans residing in San Diego County and nearly 1 in 10 individuals at Southwestern College identifying as Filipino, the Filipino community plays a vital role in the region.
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Raising the flag is an act of dedication, illustrating Southwestern College’s pledge to cultivate an inclusive environment that treasures diversity and ensures every individual is treated with respect and dignity and provided equal opportunities for success.
