Hawaii honors Fil-Am history, declares Oct. 27 as TOFA Day

Hawaii Governor Josh Green (left) and Piolo Pascual / CONTRIBUTED

HONOLULU – Hawaii Gov. Josh Green has declared October 27 as TOFA (The Outstanding Filipino Awards) Day in the island state, paying special tribute to the sakada farmers who arrived in Hawaii over a century ago and acknowledging their invaluable contributions. 

“As we commemorate TOFA Day, I encourage all citizens to recognize and celebrate the rich heritage and achievements of the Filipino American community,” Green said in his special message recognizing TOFA. 

“Let us honor our ancestors, celebrate our present, and inspire future generations to strive for excellence and make meaningful contributions to our society,” 

The governor also noted the inclusion of Hawaii’s homegrown achievers to the 14th Annual TOFA’s prestigious roster of awardees.

Among this year’s lifetime achievement awardees are Rozita Lee, former Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) advisor to US President Barack Obama, who was born in Lahaina, Hawaii; Benjamin Cayetano, governor of Hawaii from 1994–2002 and the first Fil-Am to serve as state governor in the US; former State Senator Bennette Misalucha and incumbent state representative Trish La Chica. 

The Outstanding Filipino Awards (TOFA) is happening this weekend with an intoxicating mix of Hawaii’s movers and shakers, the Filipino American community’s beacons of inspiration, and Filipino heartthrob Piolo Pascual converging at the Blue Note Hawaii. 

Pascual is the global awardee for entertainment at the 14th Annual TOFA, recognizing the versatile talent of the Filipino actor, musician and producer. The actor’s captivating performances resonate with audiences worldwide.

Piolo Pascual / CONTRIBUTED

His passion and talent elevate the Philippine entertainment industry and promote cultural pride on a global stage. In addition, his philanthropic efforts reflect a strong commitment to uplifting the community, making him a true role model who has inspired millions around the world.   

Hawaii’s FilCom Center is likewise a 14th Annual TOFA awardee, specifically in the TOFA National Awards–Heritage category. Located near the old Oahu Sugar Mill in Waipahu, the FilCom Center is the largest Filipino community center in the US, covering 50,000 sq. ft.

Inaugurated on June 11, 2002, the center serves as a symbol of Filipino achievement, offering space for businesses, a health clinic and community activities for the Fil-Ams of Hawaii, which hosts the second-largest Filipino enclave in America. 

“I am deeply touched by the warm reception we have received here in Hawaii, under the leadership of Gov. Green. We look forward to finally meeting all 14th Annual TOFA honorees, whose life stories and contributions we are celebrating this year,” said journalist Elton Lugay, TOFA founder and CEO, who has been the driving force behind the prestigious event since TOFA’s founding in New York in 2010. 

TOFA has recognized more than 300 exceptional individuals and organizations whose accomplishments have uplifted the Filipino spirit worldwide.