Who are we? AKO AY PILIPINO!

By: Joe Mauricio

 

The annual Chicago Filipino Asian American Hall of Fame is the largest gala event in our community that’s dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Filipino culture and heritage in the mainstream America, that originated in the city of Chicago.

Since its inaugural in 1994, this annual gala event has grown in both size and stature, from a simple beginning held at the Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, followed by venues such as Marriott O’Hare, Navy Pier, Hyatt Regency Chicago, Westin O’Hare, to present-day Hyatt Regency O’Hare, in showcasing its annual show presentation.

Today, the CFAA Hall of Fame stands as a shining tribute to the men and women of Filipino, Asian and American (as Friend of the Filipino) heritage. The gala event defines who we are as Filipino, excelling in their chosen professions and expertise. The gala focuses on the achievements by the inductees, wherein high-tech audiovisuals and lighting and notable entertainers help bring the treasured Hall of Famers in dynamic fashion.

Who are we? AKO AY PILIPINO…. We are the healthcare professionals, doctors, nurses, engineers, teachers, entrepreneurs, politicians, lawyers, artists, community leaders, humanitarian/social workers, martial artists, soldiers and voters. Yes, voters.

The face of the American voters has changed dramatically, with the growth of Asian population in the United States. A voting Filipino- Asian block was developed with a potential to determine the outcome ofFilipino-Asians in America, both natural born as well as the newly-arrived immigrants, will forever alter the way the country votes and even how the nation views itself.

The monumental effect of Filipino-Asians will have on all areas of American culture, especially in politics, will be acutely felt as the road to future elections. Yes, Ako Ay Pilipino!

America should care about bridging the gap of misunderstanding that exists between Asians and non-Asians alike, for a co-existing future for all immigrants in this country. Yes, Ako Ay Pilipino! And, we make waves in this country!

VT’s Jovie Calma sings a heartrending song of “Ako Ay Pilipino” while the Man & Woman of the Year 2017 (Richard Felicelda and Marie Cunning) march around the grand ballroom of the Hyatt Regency O’Hare. Also shown in background are HOF co-emcees Nick Vera Perez and Girlie Pascual, also Edizon Dayao, music director of Chanzon Duo.