LA County proclaims June 12 as Philippine Independence Day

2nd Annual Philippine American Friendship Day in 2023

Embracing cultural diversity, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has officially declared June 12 as Philippine Independence Day.

Supervisor Janice Hahn, backed by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, spearheaded this motion that recognizes the rich heritage and contributions of Filipino Americans. 

“The Board of Supervisors recognizes the importance of this day to Filipino residents in Los Angeles County and their invaluable contributions to our community,” stated Hahn in a press release.

Los Angeles County is home to more than 500,000 Filipino Americans, and the recognition is a nod to their enduring impact on the county’s rich heritage and cultural diversity.

As Fil-Ams and other Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) continue to face anti-Asian hate and hate crimes, LA County stands as a beacon of hope, advocating for inclusion and diversity.

Hahn also recognized the County’s Filipino employees “who have made invaluable contributions to our County family.”

For the 2nd Annual Philippine American Friendship Day in 2023, Hahn was joined by Filipino American media pioneer Jannelle So and Noel Omega, president of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations of Greater LA.

This new holiday in LA County is a tribute to the Filipino community’s cultural and historical legacy tracing back to June 12, 1898, when the Philippines claimed sovereignty from Spain after three centuries of colonial rule.

“We need to celebrate the incredible economic and cultural contributions our Filipino brothers and sisters are making right now every day that are strengthening the diverse fabric of our County,” said Supervisor Solis.

To continue to honor Fil-Ams in LA County and celebrate their heritage, Hahn is organizing the 3rd Annual Philippine-American Friendship Day Festival at Don Knabe Park in Cerritos on July 13. This event promises a vibrant showcase of Filipino culture through music, performances and mouthwatering culinary delights. 

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Philippine Independence Day celebrations

Philippine Independence Day is celebrated across the United States. Festivities were recently held in Vallejo and New York.  

This Saturday, June 8, music icons Gary V and Apl.de.Ap will headline the celebration in Carson.

The Black Eyed Peas founding member will also serve as the parade grand marshal. Presented in collaboration with the Philippine Independence Day Foundation, the festivities will commence at 7:30 a.m. and run until 6 p.m. at Veterans Park, located at 22400 Moneta Avenue.