NEW YORK CITY — As I embrace the golden year of my life, I am equally excited to embark on a new journey with you all. For the first time, I am running a column dedicated to the vibrant Filipino American community and our multifaceted stories under the sun. Having been a correspondent for Inquirer.net USA for over 15 years, it’s an honor to launch this bimonthly column with the Philippine Daily Inquirer’s esteemed online edition.
For my inaugural column, let’s toast to these Filipino Americans who have blazed trails this January 2024, setting an auspicious tone for the new year.
New York native Matthew Libatique‘s lens has once again captured the raw essence of storytelling. His third Oscar nomination for cinematography in Bradley Cooper’s “Maestro” is a testament to his impeccable vision. Libatique’s artistry illuminates the screen, reminding us that behind every great film is the eye that first sees the story.
Simultaneously, Dolly de Leon continues to bask in the limelight following her historic Golden Globes nomination, showcasing her versatility in two Sundance films: “Ghostlight” and “Between the Temples.” Her performances are a beacon for aspiring actors and a proud representation of Filipino talent in the international film industry.
Ramona Diaz‘s documentary “And So It Begins,” a Sundance hit, strikes a chord with its insightful examination of Leni Robredo’s electoral journey in the Philippines. The film delves into the heart of the grassroots movement supporting Robredo, highlighting the enduring fight for democracy. Diaz’s narrative is not just a film; it’s a movement echoing the resilient Filipino spirit.
Olivia Quido-Co’s appointment as the new vice president for global partnerships with the Miss Universe Organization marks a significant stride in the beauty and skincare industry. Her expertise will shape future international beauty ambassadors and the industry at large.
Gina Apostol, a luminary in the world of literature, is set to grace the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa as the Inouye distinguished chair in Democratic Ideals this spring. Her residency is an incredible opportunity for cultural exchange and intellectual growth, as she leads a seminar on “Narration and Nation” and engages in public discourse. Apostol’s presence amplifies the Filipino intellectual voice in the global academic sphere.
Eight Fil-Am chefs are in the running for this year’s James Beard Award for best chef: Tara Monsod and Lord Maynard Llera from California; Melissa Miranda in Seattle; Sheldon Simeon in Waikiki; Joe Fontelera in Chicago; Christina Mauricio in New York; Jennifer and Mark Berdin in Orlando; and Kimmie and Josh McIntosh from Las Vegas. These nominees’ culinary talents are a delectable representation of Filipino-American excellence in what is dubbed the Oscars of the food world.
Fashioning a unique path in Hollywood, Liza Soberano‘s debut in the comedic horror “Lisa Frankenstein” is a tale of love and adventure that transcends boundaries. Her foray into the international film scene is a beacon for Filipino actors aspiring to make their mark in Tinseltown.
And finally, the inaugural Manila International Film Fest, premiering this Monday in Los Angeles, is a cultural milestone for the Fil-Am community. With ten diverse Philippine movies showcasing in Hollywood, this event is not just a film festival; it’s a statement that Filipino stories resonate on a global scale. The five-day cinematic celebration will captivate an international audience, shining a spotlight on the rich narratives that our homeland crafts.
Organizers Lisa Lew, Ruben, and Janet Nepales deserve our applause for bringing this vision to fruition. The Manila International Film Fest is a testament to the determination of the Filipino community to share our heritage with the world.
Supporting Filipino talents on the global stage is more than just an act of patriotism; it is a strategic investment in the visibility and influence of our culture. Every success, every accolade, every breakthrough serves as a beacon for millions of Filipinos. It inspires our youth, emboldens our artists and galvanizes our community.
The pride of one is indeed the glory of many.
When we champion our filmmakers, actors, writers, chefs, and beauty experts, we do not merely applaud their individual achievements; we elevate the entire Filipino narrative. Each triumph is a collective one, reinforcing the notion that Filipinos have a significant role to play on the world’s stage.
As 2024 unfolds, I urge you to support these cultural endeavors. Attend the film festivals, watch the movies, read the books, dine at the restaurants of our James Beard Award-nominated chefs, and engage with our artists’ work. In doing so, we ensure that our culture is not only preserved but also thrives outside our motherland.
The Filipino American connection is a powerful one, bridging the Philippines with the broader international community. Let us continue to build these bridges, celebrate our heritage and advance the narrative of a vibrant, creative and resilient Filipino people.
In closing, I extend an invitation to you all: immerse yourselves in the stories of our kababayans, support their endeavors, and take pride in their accomplishments. The global stage awaits, and together, with our collective efforts, we will ensure that the Filipino shines bright for the world to see.
Thank you for joining me in this new chapter. Here’s to celebrating and amplifying the Filipino presence across the globe—a journey I am thrilled to be sharing with you through “The Fil-Am Connection.”
